H2O Networks, which last May 2008 selected Bournemouth to become the UK's first Fibre Optic (FTTH) broadband Fibrecity (here and here) - capable of offering speeds at up to 100Mbps, has revealed that it will connect an initial 30 homes to the network by March.

Bournemouth's Fibrecity project is aiming to be the largest in Europe, with H2O funding and providing the network at a cost of around £30 million. The majority of the fibre will be put in the sewers using H2O's patented FS (Fibre Optical Cable Underground Sewer) System.

As previously reported the first customers will also benefit from a free connection and limited free service period, though this will be withdrawn once engineers leave the area. Future connection charges could top £400 and thus those interested should make sure they SIGNUP.

The local Bournemouth Daily Echo newspaper reports that 5,600 local residents and businesses have already signed-up for the service, which equates to a 40% take-up. The network is expected to be completed by 2010, with a similar project also taking place in Dundee.

It's hoped that the new next-gen network will also foster greater uptake of Internet TV (IPTV) and video security services, though much will depend upon how much it costs to run. Meanwhile Virgin Media expects to have its 50Mbps network completed by this summer, while BT's comparable service will initially rollout to 12m homes by 2012.