Fibre-Optic Broadband for the Brunswick
An outline of current efforts to secure full fibre broadband, the case for a neutral provider and links to wider digital upgrades on the estate.
Why Fibre-Optic Broadband Is Needed at the Brunswick
The Brunswick does not currently have full fibre-optic broadband, and most residents rely on ageing copper-based connections that do not meet modern digital standards. Demand for faster, more stable internet continues to grow, driven by remote work, streaming, gaming, cloud services and new communication tools. The estate’s existing infrastructure struggles to keep pace with these requirements, leading to slower speeds and reduced reliability compared with neighbouring developments.
This disparity has become more evident as new construction and commercial units near the Brunswick are scheduled to receive fibre-optic connections as standard. The hotel being built within the former underground car park, along with the surrounding retail units, will have access to modern digital networks, highlighting a growing gap between new development and the residential blocks. Given the Brunswick’s central location — minutes from the West End and surrounded by some of the most digitally advanced districts in London — a fibre upgrade is both necessary and reasonable.
Previous Attempts and What We Learned
Over recent years, two providers expressed interest in installing fibre-optic broadband on the estate. Hyperoptic made initial approaches but did not proceed because there was not enough formally expressed resident demand to justify the investment at that time. More recently, Community Fibre explored the possibility of connecting the Brunswick but their interest also waned before the project could progress.
These experiences highlighted the need for a more structured and coordinated approach. Providers require a clear expression of interest, predictable access routes and confidence that a sufficient number of households will engage with the service. Without this, commercial investment becomes difficult to secure. The estate now has a clearer understanding of what is required: organised resident support, clear communication with providers, and a strategy built around long-term viability rather than individual sign-ups.
The Case for a Neutral Infrastructure Provider (e.g. Openreach)
Experience has shown that relying on single-provider fibre companies may not be the most effective route for the Brunswick. A neutral infrastructure provider — such as Openreach — offers a more sustainable and inclusive approach. These providers install the physical fibre network that all major broadband companies can use, giving residents the freedom to choose the service and pricing that best suit their needs.
Working with an infrastructure provider also aligns better with the mixed uses across the estate. The new hotel and retail spaces will require robust digital services, and a neutral provider is well placed to deliver consistent connectivity across residential and commercial elements. This approach reduces exclusivity concerns, avoids limiting residents to one company, and provides a long-term upgrade path as technology evolves.
What Installation Would Involve (If Agreed)
If a fibre-optic upgrade were approved, the installation would involve running fibre cabling through existing risers and service routes, installing distribution equipment in plant areas, and providing individual access points within flats. In-home work is typically minimal, often involving a small connection box placed near the preferred router location.
Contractors would work block by block, coordinating access where required and ensuring that any drilling or cabling is carried out cleanly and safely. Because fibre cabling is lightweight and flexible, the disruption is generally far less than major structural or mechanical works. Camden and the provider would outline phasing, expected routes and notice periods well in advance.
At this stage, these details are illustrative — but they reflect industry-standard practice and the likely pattern of delivery if a full upgrade were secured.
Next Steps and How Residents Can Support the Project
For the Brunswick to secure fibre-optic broadband, providers will need to see clear evidence of resident interest and coordinated engagement. Providers are far more likely to invest when there is demonstrable local demand, organised representation, and a commitment to working constructively during planning and installation. The TRA can help coordinate this interest, gather feedback and demonstrate that the estate is prepared to work with a neutral provider.
Next steps may include approaching Openreach or another infrastructure operator, confirming technical viability, and ensuring that Camden understands the resident case for digital modernisation. The proximity of major institutions, commercial units and new developments already receiving fibre strengthens the argument for residential inclusion. With a structured approach, it is realistic for the Brunswick to secure a modern digital upgrade that reflects its position in the centre of London.
Further information, updates and ways to register interest are available via the resources on this page.
Fibre Project Updates
Information on progress toward securing full-fibre for the estate →
About Fibre Providers
Learn how open-access fibre networks work →
Register Your Interest
Help demonstrate resident demand for fibre-optic broadband →
On this page
Why Fibre-Optic Broadband Is Needed →
Previous Attempts and What We Learned →
The Case for a Neutral Infrastructure Provider →
What Installation Would Involve →
Next Steps and Resident Support →