Amphora Connect: Enabling Digital Inclusion Across the City

Amphora Connect

Amphora Connect operates a large, open-access fibre network that now reaches most of urban Colchester and has a growing footprint outside Colchester (Ipswich, Braintree, and Harlow).

The “open-access” principle means that in addition to Amphora Connect itself selling connectivity services, other operators are welcome to use the infrastructure on a commercial basis to reach end customers. Six network partners now make use of the network in this way. In 2026, the network is poised to expand to West Mersea and along the east coast. 

One of the most important deployments undertaken in recent times is the upgrade of all the Council’s sheltered housing schemes to full-fibre, gigabit connectivity. As the legacy copper networks are turned off, this deployment has allowed for the integration of building management systems, Helpline, CCTV and other digital systems, as well as providing ultrafast WiFi services for residents in communal areas (and, where wanted, direct ultrafast connections to the residents direct). The integration of these sites means they have reliable, future-proof connectivity for years to come, ensuring all residents have access to digital services enabling them to live independent lives for longer.



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