The growth will expand the size of their fifth-generation network by fourfold. The startup offers carrier grade coverage by means of above ground kits. This allows the kit to be upgraded constantly, and is easier to install than fibre-optic cables, which need to go underground. The first areas to rollout under the new expansion are Summerhall and Calton Hill. 

Edinburgh has a wide availability (87.9%) of gigabit broadband, however, over 6,000 homes still cannot get 30 megabits per second, according to Ofcom. This means they are unable to have fast downloads, quality video conferencing, or multiple users, as 30 megabits is the minimum required standard for these uses. 

“The success of our pilot scheme in the Old and New Towns has proved the concept and given us the confidence to invest in growing our coverage. We have seen very high levels of interest from residents in all parts of Edinburgh who want faster speeds than they are currently able to receive so we know the demand is here,” said Natalie Duffield, CEO of WeLink Communications UK.

The startup connects users to high speed broadband using its pioneered fixed-wireless broadband approach which it introduced in Las Vegas in early 2021. WeLink uses the advances made in the 5G millimetre, and cheap cost of hardware to create a mesh network of wireless base stations to create high-bandwidth signals across entire neighbourhoods. This drives down installation and infrastructure costs, as well as delays that are often experienced in service for homes who have fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) connections. 

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“Broadband is vital for modern life and with rising bills, Edinburgh households and businesses need to make sure they are getting full value for money and a decent standard of customer service from their suppliers. We pride ourselves on providing friendly service at a fair price and if you need to get in touch, you can actually speak to us on the phone,” said Duffield.