Community broadband provider B4RN has approved the first phase of a full fibre network for upper Weardale in County Durham, with work on a route from Killhope to Ireshopeburn due to start as early as this month.
The not-for-profit Community Benefit Society said on 26 October that its Wearhead phase will bring gigabit-capable connections to more than 300 homes and businesses. It described the scheme as one of the fastest it has taken through development, crediting the support of local residents and landowners.
A second phase is being tabled that could extend the network down the valley to as many as 800 homes, reaching Westgate. B4RN said it may also look at coverage towards Rookhope, subject to funding and continued local support. Government funding can cover up to 80% of network build costs, although B4RN warned that funding and delivery timescales are limited.
Tom Rigg, B4RN’s chief executive, said: “We want to turn that enthusiasm into a network that serves this valley for generations.” Mike Orr, a local resident and business owner, said: “Full fibre is one of the most valuable things a rural community can secure.”
Residents and businesses can check their address on B4RN’s line checker and then either pledge investment to speed up the build or register interest in taking a service. Landowners are being asked to grant wayleaves allowing fibre to cross their land.
Weardale East and Weardale West were listed among B4RN’s government-approved projects when the society launched B4RN North East in June 2024, extending its network from Lancashire and Cumbria into Northumberland and County Durham. B4RN had connected 15,700 customers and passed 32,000 rural premises in England by June 2026, according to ISPreview. Its 1Gbps service starts at £35 a month, with a £15 social tariff.
For upland communities such as Weardale, full fibre underpins farm businesses and the tourism enterprises that depend on reliable connections. Work on the first stage could begin this month.
