BUSINESSES could be set to benefit from the first full-fibre internet network in the area - as an alternative to the mainstream copper network.

Slough and Maidenhead is set to join Reading and Bracknell as new infrastructure is laid through the respective towns to offer 'ultra-fast' connections.

The full-fibre network is an alternative to the towns' legacy copper-based networks, owned nationally by BT Openreach.

UK infrastructure provider, CityFibre, is leading the 'Gigabit City' charge as it buddies up with internet service provider, BtL Communications.

It claims businesses could get gigabit internet services up to 100 times faster than the UK's average speeds.

The build will light up 38 kilometres of fibre network from Slough Trading Estate to the town centre, and a further 10 kilometres across Maidenhead. It is claimed the investment could generate an additional £1.2bn GVA for the region over the next five to seven years.

Nick Gray, city development manager at CityFibre said:

“From the latest Tech Nation Report we know that the digital technology industry contributes billions to the UK economy, creates high value jobs and attracts investment from all over the world. This presents excellent opportunities for Thames Valley communities. It is vitally important, therefore, that this growing region has the best connectivity possible to enable it to remain competitive on a global stage."

Rob Lamden, managing director for BtL added: “We have been helping businesses in the region with their IT, telecoms and internet connectivity since 2001 and we are very pleased to be working with CityFibre to make a real difference to the region’s digital landscape.

“Having grown up in Maidenhead and Slough from the age of nine, I am particularly motivated to bring the gigabit revolution to the towns I grew up in."

To register interest in the project, visit cityfibre.com/connect