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Thousands in Hartlepool missing out on Full Fibre broadband

Thousands of people across Hartlepool are missing out on the UK's most reliable broadband technology and risk falling behind in today’s digital age, Openreach has warned.

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Around 34,000 homes and businesses in the town can already upgrade to Full Fibre, but so far less than one in five have made the switch. 

Full fibre technology offers a faster, more reliable broadband connection. The once-in-a-generation technology enables locals to connect multiple devices at gigabit-capable speeds and will help businesses trade online and compete for decades to come.

Across the wider Tees Valley area, more than 135,000 homes and businesses are able to upgrade, thanks to Openreach’s huge investment and network build. 

Around 34,000 homes and businesses in the area can upgrade.
Around 34,000 homes and businesses in the area can upgrade. Credit: Openreach

People living in Hartlepool can see if they can upgrade to full fibre by visiting  Openreach’s full fibre checker

Robert Thorburn, Openreach’s regional director for the North, said: “Fast and reliable full fibre broadband gives households and businesses a significant boost. As the UK’s leading provider of fibre infrastructure, Openreach is at the forefront of the digital transformation, connecting communities all over the UK and future-proofing the network for decades to come. 

“Our extensive network - the largest in the UK – means residents can shop around and find the best deals that suit their needs. But it’s important to remember that upgrades don’t happen automatically. People need to order it to take advantage of the technology."

Locals should check with their service provider to see if they can switch now.
Locals should check with their service provider to see if they can switch now. Credit: Openreach

Full Fibre technology offers a faster, more reliable connection that keeps up with the demands of today’s digital world. 

Whether streaming your favourite show, gaming online, making a video call, managing your finances, or running a business, full fibre keeps everything running smoothly. 

Packages from the widest range of broadband providers are also increasingly competitively priced, meaning people may pay similar, or even less, per month than their current bill for a much-improved service. 

Openreach’s full fibre network now reaches more than 17 million properties, and the company plans to extend this to 25 million homes and businesses by the end of 2026, with a belief it can reach as many as 30 million by the end of the decade – with the right investment conditions.