Up to 34,000 properties in Stockton will receive the upgrade following a more than £5.5 million investment in digital infrastructure by broadband provider nexfibre.
Rajiv Datta, chief executive officer of nexfibre, said: “We are committed to delivering high quality connectivity to everyone across the country.
“Full-fibre broadband is a crucial driver of economic growth, and our investment in Stockton-on-Tees will help deliver better access to education, jobs, and opportunities that can transform lives and uplift entire communities.”
The investment follows nexfibre’s recent acquisition of Netomnia.
The company’s open access network will be available to all internet service providers, giving residents more choice for their broadband services.
Following approval, properties currently connected to Virgin Media O2’s network will also be upgraded to full-fibre.
The transaction as a whole will unlock £3.5 billion of international investment, providing a boost to the UK economy, as well as ensuring millions of network upgrades take place across the country.
Nexfibre is also working with UK Youth to tackle digital poverty. As part of this partnership, the company will provide free full-fibre broadband to youth centres across the UK.
In Stockton, up to six youth centres will benefit from the scheme.
Access to quality full fibre broadband and better connectivity is critical to boosting the prospects of disadvantaged young people and stoking economic growth.
