The arrival of COVID-19 served to underscore the importance of good internet and the Estate has gone the extra mile to provide access to Gigaclear’s ultrafast, full-fibre network.

Commenting on the installation process, Matthew Neilson, Head of Property and Development at Blenheim Palace, explains: “It was a joy to work alongside Gigaclear to bring ultrafast internet speeds to the Palace and our estate properties. There was plenty of communication, particularly during the planning stages, which kept everyone in the loop – it was very much appreciated.

“Having to navigate the Palace’s sensitive parkland is a challenge in itself, it’s a Grade I listed landscape and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gigaclear was particularly mindful of our veteran oak trees, Europe’s largest collection, during the build, respecting the Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI). The installation went to plan, and we are very happy with the results.”

Gigaclear’s work crossing the Blenheim Estate took just three months and has enabled a further 385 properties in the wider area to gain access to its network, providing speeds of up to 900Mbps. This includes residential dwellings in Combe, Wootton and Bladon.

Matthew continues: “It’s great that Gigaclear’s network has futureproofed the area. We all know that it’s more important than ever to have access to a good broadband connection, and Blenheim, and its surrounding villages, now have access to a world-leading one. Gigaclear’s work has bolstered the area further as a great place to live and work, an idyllic rural location that comes with the benefits of a high-tech lifestyle more commonly associated with urban living.”