VolkerSmart Technologies, the Smart Cities initiative from highways service provider, VolkerHighways, will construct full fibre networks on behalf of CityFibre, to reach almost every home and business across Bracknell and Maidenhead.

The works will include excavating 170,000m of trenches in Bracknell and 110,000m in Maidenhead. The teams will install ducting, before blowing, splicing and finally testing the fibre optic cables.

With an increase in people working from home, the works will provide the essential infrastructure needed for almost every home and business in Bracknell and Maidenhead to access the UK’s fastest broadband services.

Where possible, the team will use a hybrid installation, incorporating both new underground trenched duct networks and existing overhead infrastructure. By using this combined installation, VolkerSmart Technologies will be able to provide a faster and more efficient delivery, while minimising disruption for residents.

The major investments in both Bracknell and Maidenhead are part of CityFibre’s plans to replace the nation’s legacy networks with gigabit-capable full fibre connectivity. The state-of-the-art infrastructure is expected to boost business productivity and innovation, and deliver millions in economic benefits, while giving residents access to the UK’s fastest broadband services.

Alistair Thompson, managing director of VolkerHighways, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded a further two full fibre rollout contracts for CityFibre in Bracknell and Maidenhead, taking our total to five, as a further development of our relationship with CityFibre. We understand the importance of high-speed broadband, particularly as we live through these unprecedented times, and we look forward to improving local residents’ and businesses’ digital experiences.”

Stacey King, CityFibre’s city manager for the Thames Valley, said: “We are excited about the work that is already underway in Bracknell and Maidenhead, and extremely proud of the progress CityFibre has made across the region. Working closely with our build partners, this is the start of an exciting new chapter for the Thames Valley as it gets ready to thrive in the digital age.”