The Essex-based alternative network provider, founded in 2003, is already delivering its FTTP infrastructure to over 150 villages across Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire after receiving a £46m investment from Aviva Investors in 2018.
The funding will enable County Broadband to extend the reach of its rural network with an ambition to pass half a million homes and businesses by the end of 2027. The ISP has also set out plans to double its workforce to over 250 and invest in local skills and apprentices whilst engaging with regional suppliers.
Lloyd Felton, founder and chief executive of County Broadband (pictured), said, “We are delighted to announce that County Broadband has secured an additional £100 million in private investment, following our initial £46 million investment from Aviva Investors in 2018.
“We are committed to delivering full fibre, gigabit-capable broadband to thousands more communities, homes and businesses. Building new broadband infrastructure is a complex task and whilst our plans are ambitious, they are grounded in reality as we understand the importance of delivering on the promises we make.”
Sean McLachlan, senior director, infrastructure equity at Aviva Investors, added, “The additional commitment we have made will enable County Broadband to extend its rollout to even more communities in the East of England, ensuring those locations are suitably equipped for today’s connected world, whilst also having a positive benefit for our client portfolios.”
County Broadband specialises in connecting rural communities that only have access to FTTC technology and is working to upgrade those communities to gigabit-capable alternatives to cope with the connectivity demands of the future.