11,000 Carrickfergus businesses and residents to benefit from better broadband

by Gráinne Connolly

Residents and business owners in Carrickfergus are to benefit from increased digital connectivity, following an investment deal announced by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and Virgin Media.

The roll-out, which is expected to reach up to 11,000 premises in the area, is part of the council’s ongoing strategic investment agenda that aims to support the growth of the local economy and deliver excellent services.

Virgin Media’s fibre to the premises (FTTP) technology will help improve the quality of broadband in the area, bringing average speeds of 362Mbps on Virgin Media’s fastest package.

This is more than 10 times faster than the local average and will provide residents with smooth, reliable connectivity in the home and the ability to download films, music and games in minutes.

Businesses will also benefit from high speeds enabling them to download large files, upload to the cloud and helping them to grow.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Cllr Lindsay Millar welcomed the news:

“Following extensive engagement with stakeholders, we have pursued the need to build upon our existing broadband capabilities and help improve the digital connectivity throughout the area. This is a great economic and social boost for those living and working in and around Carrickfergus.”

Installation work by Virgin Media will commence shortly, to align with Department of Infrastructure works on the Marshallstown Road and the forthcoming public realm works on Lancasterian Street.

This will keep any possible disruption to a minimum and help save on costs. It is expected the installation works will be completed in time for summer.

Mayor Millar added: “We can assure our local residents and business owners that we will be working closely with Virgin Media to help mitigate any concerns or issues leading up to and during the roll out.

"We have been working extremely hard to encourage investment in our area and help make Mid and East Antrim the best place to live, work and do business.”

Conor Harrison, Regional Director at Virgin Media, said: “We are delighted to be bringing our ultrafast broadband network to Carrickfergus and will be working closely with the local council to ensure our expansion in the area has a limited impact on residents.

"The installation of our services will transform the quality of broadband in the area and will give local families and businesses access to faster more reliable speeds.”

An information evening will be held on Wednesday 12 December from 7pm to 8.30pm in the Conference suite, Carrickfergus Marina. This will be an opportunity for residents to meet representatives from Virgin Media to find out more about the works and ask any questions.