ISP Exascale Target Wolverhampton and Cheltenham for FTTP Build

UK ISP Exascale, which recently started deploying a new gigabit-capable “full fibre” (FTTP) broadband network to homes and businesses Telford (Shropshire), also appear to be preparing to conduct a similar rollout around “out of town” locations in Wolverhampton (West Midlands) and Cheltenham (Gloucestershire).

The on-going build in Telford, which began a couple of months ago (here) using a mix of GPON and NG-PON technology, initially aims to cover 1,200 homes and 250 businesses. The CEO of Exascale, Thomas Bibb, informs ISPreview.co.uk that since then they’ve nearly completed the Phase 1 build – passing 220 homes and 40 businesses in the town, with Phase 2 due to start in January 2020.

The provider also intends, where it makes sense, to utilise Openreach’s (BT) existing cable ducts and telegraph poles via the Physical Infrastructure Access (PIA) product to help reach local homes and businesses within their patch. As such they’ve put in a related application for Code Powers from Ofcom, which can help to speed-up such work and cuts costs by reducing the number of licenses needed.

In keeping with that the provider has also revealed that their FTTP deployment will in the future be expanded to include “out of town” locations around Wolverhampton (West Midlands) and Cheltenham (Gloucestershire), which isn’t too much of a surprise given that they have some existing networks in those areas (example). No doubt they’ll release further details when ready.

Meanwhile a number of packages are on offer under their FTTP network including a 100Mbps (average speed) service for £40 per month, 400Mbps for £55 and 900Mbps for £75. All packages attach an 18 month contract term, include a Gigabit AC Wi-Fi Router and offer a free installation thanks to the Government’s Gigabit voucher schemes.