Connecting Ashbourne with Ultrafast Full-Fibre Broadband
Cellex is proud to have successfully delivered ultrafast full-fibre broadband to around 4,000 homes in Ashbourne, Derbyshire. An historic market town known for its Georgian architecture, conservation areas, and surrounding rural landscapes. This project marks a significant, milestone in enhancing digital infrastructure in one of Derbyshire’s most characterful yet connectivity-challenged areas.
The rollout in Ashbourne on behalf of Virgin Media O2 and Nexfibre required careful consideration of both its heritage status and rural characteristics Narrow lanes, cobbled streets, and listed buildings limited the use of conventional build techniques. In surrounding hamlets, the lack of existing duct infrastructure and dispersed housing presented further logistical challenges.
To meet the demands, Cellex deployed a combination of innovative approaches, including micro-trenching in heritage zones and aerial fibre installation in harder-to-reach rural fringes. The project was completed with minimal disruption to residents and business, thanks to close coordination with local authorities and community stakeholders we we’re able to do all this and still deliver this project ahead of schedule, a trust testament to everyone involved.
With full-fibre broadband now available, homes and small businesses in Ashbourne can benefit from speeds of up to 1Gbps. This level of connectivity marks a step-change for a community that previously faced digital limitations due to location and infrastructure constraints.
The delivery aligns with broader national efforts to level up rural broadband access, echoing the Government’s aims under Project Gigabit programme. The Ashbourne build is a prime example of how strategic investment and technical ingenuity can bring world-class digital services to smaller market towns and remote communities.
Key Outcomes
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4,000 homes in Ashbourne connected to full-fibre broadband
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Overcoming heritage and rural build challenges through adaptive engineering
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Enabling gigabit-capable speeds for previously underserved market town
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Supporting long-term digital resilience and economic opportunities in Derbyshire
This project reflects Cellex’s continued commitment to bridging the digital divide and delivering fast, reliable internet to communities across the UK, no matter how complex the build.
Quote from - Donna Morley – Virgin Media O2
“Great work everyone! Well done to Cellex too, very challenging builds due to the beautiful architecture which you navigated and overcame very well! Thanks for all your hard work on this James Fiddian and team!”
Quote from - Donna Morley – Virgin Media O2
“Great work Cellex. It’s a pleasure working with you all! Keep up the great work! Huge thanks to all the Virgin Media team too. Great collaboration.”