Internet service provider Hyperoptic today announced the delivery of their 1GB broadband service to the first building in Birmingham. The 1000MB broadband speed shoots way out ahead of the Birmingham average speed of just over 20MB.
The lucky residents of the Queen’s College Chambers residential block are the first in Birmingham to be eligible for the 1G Hyperoptic broadband. With phone lines included, residents can enjoy gigabit internet for £22 a month for the first six months, or broadband on its own for £35 a month for the first six month. Following the six month period, prices increase to a fairly significant £47 and £60 a month respectively.
The gigabit connection is also available for businesses, with prices starting from £300 a month (excluding VAT). Having the faster internet connection possible may prove beneficial for IT or telecoms companies, as well as those in the media industry.
The introduction of 1000MB internet to Birmingham makes Birmingham one of the few cities in the UK to become a “gigabit city”. Less than 15 UK cities are currently “gigabit cities”, though Hyperoptic hope to expand their 1G broadband availability across the UK. At the moment the company are focusing on larger multi-dwelling buildings or offices with 50 or more units, rather than individual properties, as to get a greater return on their investment.
Birmingham City Council Cabinet Member for Sustainability, Councillor Trickett, welcomed the gigabit internet saying: “I am pleased to see new private sector investment in the city that enables access to faster broadband services for our citizens and businesses. I am sure that this will encourage further investments and will ensure that Birmingham’s residents continue to benefit from great digital services.”