A major infrastructure project to build a faster broadband service in Ramsbottom has begun.

Next-generation internet provider BeFibre has started the build of its network, in the latest phase of a targeted £100 million private investment to upgrade customers’ broadband.

The start of the construction means residents of the town will soon be able to enjoy broadband speeds 13 times faster than the fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC) coverage that currently spans the majority of the UK.

BeFibre plans to deliver FTTC connectivity to approximately 17,000 properties and will phase its roll out.

It is expected that the first homes will be broadband ready before the end of the year.

BeFibre strives to be known as the internet server that keeps its promises and to deliver broadband as it should be.

Its download and upload speeds equate to the ability to download a one-hour TV programme in only seven seconds, or 500 Spotify songs in 25 seconds, for example.

The company aims to reach a total of 80 locations and 1,000,000 premises by 2027, but Ramsbottom has always featured early on the roadmap.

BeFibre’s sales director, Tim Dagnell-Scott, said: “As a country, there’s a lot of work to be done in the UK, to provide communities with the internet connectivity they truly need.

“That’s why we’re working hard – and at pace – to deliver a future-proofed broadband network in areas that have been underserved, to date.

“We’re working quickly, utilising existing ducts so we don’t have to dig up the town’s roads.

“This is less disruptive, allows us to connect homes faster, and it’s better for the environment too.

“If you see us in the area, come and talk to us – we want to speak to as many residents as possible to understand what makes Ramsbottom tick.”

Ramsbottom’s full-fibre network has been designed and will be built and operated by BeFibre’s sister company, Digital Infrastructure.

Residents can find out if they can receive the new service by registering their interest at be-fibre.co.uk/registernow