EM3 gigabit broadband ‘fibre spine’ project reaches crucial new milestone

An EM3 Local Enterprise Partnership (EM3 LEP) project to support gigabit-capable broadband for business and communities across Surrey and Hampshire has kicked off the New Year by reaching a crucial new milestone. Over January 2023 firms interested in bidding to undertake the project are being invited to give feedback on the draft contract and specification documents for the design, build and operation of the fibre spine and active network at the heart of the project.  

The 94 kms of new infrastructure, which will initially run from Basingstoke to Guildford taking in Hook, Camberley, Aldershot, Farnborough, and Farnham delivers the critical capacity that the network needs for a step change in the speed and reliability of digital communications allowing service providers to match the levels available in major urban areas. 

We are currently consulting on the specification and the major legal documents in preparation for the upcoming tender process which we intend to launch as soon as possible after consultation has finished.  

To view the documents and the market engagement questions please follow the instructions on the Hampshire County Council website here. The deadline for responses is 5pm on Tuesday 31st January 2023. 

The planned route has been designed to address the demand from businesses and residents for faster and more reliable connections and to encourage service providers to accelerate their roll outs in Hampshire and Surrey. Work undertaken for the LEP has demonstrated that existing businesses across the EM3 area are being held back by the poor services currently available in some areas.   

Highlighting the milestone, Stephen Martin, Joint Managing Director of Enterprise M3 LEP said:  

“I’m delighted that we have reached this important milestone towards delivering gigabit-capable broadband for businesses and communities across Hampshire and Surrey. This project exemplifies our vital role in our region as a driver of business growth and a mobiliser of partnerships to make things happen. We are committed to leading this project because we know how important robust and future proofed digital connectivity is to business success, the delivery of outstanding public services, and attracting investors into our area.” 

Organisations interested in learning more about EM3 gigabit project should contact fibre@enterprisem3.org.uk