RESIDENTS in a Somerset town are set to become more connected as work begins on extending its full fibre network.

Weston-super-Mare will benefit from a £22m private investment from CityFibre, a digital infrastructure platform.

Construction work has now started in Hutton Moor, with the rest of the town set to follow soon.

Kier Group is delivering the programme on CityFibre's behalf.

CityFibre use fibre optic cables to provide a superior and more reliable broadband service.

“It’s really exciting to be part of CityFibre’s gigabit revolution, transforming connectivity for towns and cities across the country," said Kathryn Askew Smith, CityFibre’s city manager for Weston-super-Mare.

"Our digital infrastructure plays a crucial role in growing and protecting local economies; and even more so during these unprecedented times when connectivity is proving vital to residents, businesses and public services alike.”

The Kier Group team is working closely with CityFibre, North Somerset Council and local communities to manage disruption and ensure a fast and successful roll-out.

And residents are being kept informed by mailings ahead of works in their streets.

“It is fantastic that CityFibre is now delivering on its infrastructure programme to bring a future-proofed, full fibre digital network to Weston-super-Mare," added Cllr Mark Canniford, executive member for Business and Economy at North Somerset Council.

"This will bring many benefits to residents and businesses alike and create opportunities for our local economy to grow and prosper well into the next generation.”

According to research from economic consultancy Regeneris, full fibre connectivity will have a major impact in Weston-super-Mare over the next 15 years.

It shows that up to £41m could be added to the value of local homes, while Smart City initiatives could add as much as £13m locally.

Once the full fibre network is live, services will be available from an increasing range of Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Residents interested in connecting to full fibre broadband can pre-register their interest at cityfibre.com/residential.