BT is readying 300Mbits/s fibre connections

UK TELECOMS GIANT BT is readying a fibre connection service that could bring speeds of up to 300Mbits/s to homes and businesses.

The firm has started the initial rollout of what it calls its Fibre to the Premises offering. This launches with speeds around 110Mbits/s with the higher speeds promises for early next year.

Typically, the firm said that it will offer speeds that are three times faster than "the other major networks", and will offer connections to the market on a wholesale basis. BT said that will connect premises direct to its exchanges in order to deliver the increased speeds.

"Today is a significant step in the UK's broadband journey," said Openreach chief executive Liv Garfield. "These developments will transform broadband speeds across the country and propel the UK up the broadband league tables."

The plans have the support of the government, of course, and now that BT has the regulatory approval it needs for its FTTP service, communications minister Ed Vaizey was available to rub his hands and express his happiness.

"These are significant announcements and good news for the UK. High-speed broadband is essential for economic growth, which is why we want the UK to have the best superfast broadband in Europe by 2015," said Vaizey.

"Improving the UK's broadband infrastructure will help our high-tech, digital industries grow. It will ensure the UK is an attractive place to start-up and base the businesses of tomorrow."

The service will launch later this month and then it will be available in a few locations across the country, Ashford in Middlesex, Bradwell Abbey in Milton Keynes, Highams Park in North London, Chester South, St Austell and York. BT added that it is testing one 1Gbits/s connection in Suffolk. µ