Designing and building fibre networks is a complex job. There are many obstacles to overcome, and while clever design can navigate some, there are others that simply can’t be avoided including the Great British weather.
This was perfectly illustrated last month when build partner NGE’s engineers reached a key milestone in the 212km delivery of LCR Connect, crossing the Grade II listed Runcorn Bridge, while contending with strong winds and heavy rain.
A two and a half day job developed into eight but it didn’t stop our NGE team from pushing forward. A 2-man cable crew and 4-man ropes team worked on mobile platforms with up to 70 meters reach to install the fibre into an existing duct underneath the bridge.
Health and safety is always the team’s utmost priority, and this section of the build had the added factors of working with the River Mersey and a school close by while undertaking the work at altitude!
LCR Connect is a 212km full fibre, gigabit-capable network infrastructure that will put city region businesses in prime position to lead the way in a host of growing sectors, from health and life sciences to Artificial Intelligence and advanced manufacturing.
This digital infrastructure project is a £30m joint venture, 50%-owned by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority in partnership with ITS Technology Group, who are leading the project, working alongside construction partner NGE, who are managing the build and roll out of the network.
To find out more about the LCR Connect network build or what full fibre services are available, visit Network Build | LCR Connect
