Fibrus Networks Ltd has been appointed to deliver the project, which seeks to improve internet infrastructure in “hard-to-reach communities”.
Full-fibre and cable networks are capable of delivering internet speeds of one gigabit per second.
These higher speeds make activities such as streaming video and films, playing online games and making video calls smoother and more reliable.
The money for the new connections has been allocated under the UK government’s ‘Project Gigabit’, a scheme from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).
Commenting on the announcement, Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: “High-quality internet access is vital for our economy and wider society.
“It is transformative for many households and businesses, enabling access to digital services, remote learning and work, and economic participation.
Full-fibre broadband offers better internet speeds. Photo: Getty
“At 94% gigabit-capable coverage, the North is now the best-connected part of these islands.
“Building on this, Project Gigabit will extend this level of digital capacity to over 9,000 premises, further improving broadband infrastructure in predominantly rural areas.
“Digital connectivity is a vital enabler in building an inclusive, regional balanced economy. This investment further positions the North as a leader in the availability of fixed-line fibre optic services, underpinning our digital transformation, competitiveness, and innovation.”
Telecoms Minister Liz Lloyd said: “Access to gigabit-capable broadband is so important to modern life, whether that’s running a business, accessing digital public services, or staying connected with loved ones.
Fibrus has won a major government contract to provide more gigabit-capable broaband capability to rural areas.
News Catch Up – Tuesday 16 December
“That’s why we’re making crucial investments into digital infrastructure across Northern Ireland, to unlock economic opportunities, support Northern Irish communities, and ensure everyone can fully participate in the digital economy from wherever they live.”
Dominic Kearns, CEO and co-founder of Fibrus, said: “Delivering for rural communities is at the heart of what we do at Fibrus, and this contract allows us to continue to provide more homes and businesses with the opportunities proper connectivity brings.
“We have a short history in Fibrus, but one that shows we can deliver on time and within budget, like with Project Stratum.
“We are delighted to have been awarded another contract by the government, who have entrusted us once again with its delivery.”
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Northern Ireland now enjoys the best full-fibre broadband access of all UK regions, according to Ofcom. Photo: Stock
Project Gigabit follows the previous ‘Project Stratum’, which was completed by Fibrus in August this year.
That project was a £200m investment in rural premises, which saw 81,000 connected to full-fibre broadband.
Fibrus described it as a “large-scale public infrastructure project” which “was delivered on time and on budget and has transformed access to high-speed connectivity in rural areas and delivered significant economic benefits to the local economy.”
An Ofcom report released in November found that NI had the best full-fibre broadband coverage of any UK region.
The annual Connected Nations report said that 95% of homes in NI can access full-fibre connections, notably higher than the UK figure of 78%.
Take-up of full-fibre is also on the rise in NI, with 62% of homes now connected, up from 53% last year, and again ahead of the UK rate of 42%.