Skyline Networks to Boost UK Fibre and Wireless Broadband Deployments

Business focused broadband ISP Skyline Networks appears to be gearing up for an expansion of their fibre optic and Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) network, which is already delivering gigabit-capable broadband and Ethernet (leased line) style services to parts of Suffolk, Essex, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Norfolk.

The plan was hinted at after the company put in an application for Code Powers from Ofcom. Such powers are typically sought to help speed-up deployments of new fibre and cut costs, not least by reducing the number of licenses needed for street works. The powers can also help with supporting access to run new fibre via Openreach’s (BT) existing cable ducts and poles (PIA), which is something they intend to harness.

At present Skyline Networks, which may also open up their network to wholesale, can reach as far as 8km radial from each of their wireless Points of Presence (PoPs), given line of sight, with its core coverage lying between Suffolk, Essex, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Norfolk. All of their PoPs are interconnected with Dark Fibre lines (delivered by Tier 1 carriers, typically Openreach) as well as 10Gbps wireless back-up links (commissioned by
Skyline).

The operator states that they currently have “numerous leases in places with freeholders for rooftop space” on which they place their microwave (wireless) antennas. The network itself is used to serve customers located in or on multi-occupational units, business parks and private roads, amongst other places.

At present Skyline Networks does not itself currently own any ducting nor does it currently undertake any civil works (except at base station sites), which reflects the fact that they prefer to lease them from Tier 1 carriers. But the application for Code Powers suggests that this is going to change, and they may also expand into the provision of Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) networks, although the details are currently quite limited.