Wholesale-only full fibre network operator, MS3 Networks, has completed its network build in Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire. The network will enable homes and businesses in the area to gain access to a wider pool of broadband providers and promote fiercer competition and lower prices for consumers and internet service providers (ISPs) alike.
Over 37,000 homes and businesses are now covered by MS3’s network in Scunthorpe, for which the build began just over twelve months ago. Now, those within the coverage map can access MS3’s ten-gigabit capable full fibre through one of over 30 channel partners that provide products and services through MS3’s network.
Unlike some of the other areas where MS3 operates, Scunthorpe is served by incumbent network operators, Openreach and Virgin. However, the entry of MS3’s alternative network onto the market has brought several benefits for both consumers and retail ISPs.
MS3 operates on a wholesale-only model, meaning it offers broadband services to the public through its network of channel partners. In Scunthorpe, partners can launch services on MS3’s network for a significant cost saving compared to what they can achieve with incumbent networks’ wholesale packages.
Partners are able to pass on this cost saving to customers, meaning the network not only results in a greater choice of broadband provider for homes and businesses but also a lower price point. Those selecting a provider from a partner on MS3’s network are estimated to save around £200 each year on their broadband bill.
What’s more, MS3 offers the only synchronous network covering the majority of Scunthorpe. For consumers and businesses, this offers a significantly greater quality of service. Faster upload speeds are important for those that are uploading vast amounts of data regularly – think those that are using cloud services, sharing photos online, making VoIP or video calls or online gaming and livestreaming.
MS3 offers a unique and industry-first service for consumers through its price comparison tool. Residents of Scunthorpe, and other areas MS3 covers, simply input their postcode to view the new full fibre broadband deals available through any of MS3’s partners. Results can be filtered by package, speed and price. Customers can place an order directly through the website, making the process of switching broadband provider seamless.
The launch of MS3’s network not only impacts broadband bills, but also has a positive impact on the economy of the town. A report commissioned by MS3 from PMP Strategy estimates that the deployment of MS3’s network across Scunthorpe could add up to 95 jobs to the wider community and £9 million to the town’s gross domestic product (GDP).
“We’re on a rapid network deployment plan, which involves covering over 535,000 homes and businesses across the North of England by the end of 2025. It’s important that we work as efficiently as possible to hit this target,” explained Guy Miller, CEO of MS3 Networks. “Completing our network build in Scunthorpe marks a moment of success for MS3, but also for the community, which can enjoy affordable, accessible broadband.”
To see if your property in Scunthorpe is covered by MS3’s network and to view the broadband deals available, enter your postcode on the website here.