The Superfast Cornwall project has arrived at an innovative solution that will bring fibre backhaul to the Scilly Isles without the need for a totally new link between the mainland and the islands. Two existing fibre optic cables that are laying on the seabed and are redundant after the links between UK, Ireland and Spain were moved to different cables will now be diverted to provide a reliable backhaul link and render the existing wireless backhaul redundant.
"We are delighted that a solution has been found to give our islands the best broadband access. The Isles of Scilly's communications with the UK mainland and beyond are a key part of creating a better, more prosperous future for islanders and will allow this vibrant community to take full advantage of its unique location. Faster broadband will underpin our tourist trade, will help our farmers and growers and will promote distance learning. New business opportunities will be stimulated on the Islands, encouraging local productivity and enhancing our quality of life."
Cllr Mike Hicks, chairman of the Council of the Isles of Scilly
The Isles of Scilly have a population of around 2,200 and currently only have access to an up to 8 Mbps service. The £3.7 million project via Superfast Cornwall should mean that residents and businesses on the five main islands will have access to a mixture of FTTC and FTTP. The roll-out is at the early stages, but securing the undersea link is a vital first step that should hopefully see the first new connections going live in the first half of 2014.
So BT will spend near £4 million to get fibre to 2,200 people.
St Helena (middle of the South Atlantic) needs £10 million to get fibre for its 4,000 residents. Seems rather reasonable, by comparison!