Manchester
building a
new network

Overview

IX Wireless broadband is now available across Manchester. Our new gigabit ready network offers the fastest internet speeds in the UK. Manchester residents can now enjoy download speeds of 900Mbps from an independent provider whose prices are lower than BT and Virgin's.

IX Wireless is not a dig and cover operation. Instead, we use a combination of fixed lines and our own innovative telegraph pole infrastructure technology, to deliver fast and reliable broadband speeds, directly to residential and commercial premises.

We implement ground-breaking broadband technology faster, cheaper and more effectively than anywhere else in the world.

Also because installations require little construction or excavation work, our builds minimise disruption to local communities or the residents' day-to-day lives. There are no road closures, traffic congestion or noise pollution.

Planning considerations

Code powers from Ofcom give us permission to construct and maintain electronic communication networks and infrastructure on public highways.

Our code power licence is classed as 'permitted developments' under Town and Country Planning legislation, so we don't have to apply for planning permission before beginning a new build.

We voluntarily comply with the 2016 code of practice on the siting of our cabinets and poles. We carefully consider the location of every piece of network infrastructure, ensuring that every project causes minimal disruption to communities and the natural environment.

Our telegraph pole supplier is certified by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC). PEFC is an international, non-profit, non-governmental organisation, promoting sustainable forest management through independent third-party certification.

All the wood used for our poles is sourced and treated by sustainability experts, working in line with strict environmental, social and economic standards.

Communication strategy

We maintain an open, transparent and consistent communication strategy with the public, during every stage of a network installation and we encourage members of the community to offer any feedback or suggestions for improvement.

Our communication policy includes:

• keeping the local community informed on upcoming build works with site notices no later than four weeks in advance.
• introduction letters posted no later than three weeks in advance.
• confirmed start date letters posted to local properties no later than ten days in advance.
• local news stories and coverage, announcing the network's arrival and benefits to the community.

We also reach out to local organisations and charities, to discuss how we can support and benefit them.

How the network delivers fibre broadband

Our cabinets are directly linked to the local telephone exchange, which sends fibre to the cabinet.

Our telegraph poles then carry fibre cables overhead from the cabinet to our transmitter (broadcasting mast).

The fibre signal is then sent wirelessly from the transmitter to a small receiver fitted to the property.

The transmitter is cabled directly to the router, guaranteeing full-fibre speeds.