Quickline’s expansion continues with launch of new training and innovation centre

OPENING: Hull West and Hessle MP Emma Hardy outside Quickline Communications’ new training and innovation centre, with CEO Sean Royce, right, and Chief Operating Officer Lee Allison

By Rick Lyon

Rural broadband provider Quickline Communications has opened a new training centre, stores and test laboratory for the development of innovative technologies.

The launch of the facility in Hull represents the latest stage of Quickline’s continued expansion as it rolls out its game-changing broadband across rural communities in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.

The premises provide Quickline with a custom built, modern space to train its engineers and develop the skills of its teams across the business. It will also be used to store its build and installation materials.

Engineers will use the centre as their main base to collect equipment for installations and it will be used by Quickline’s own Internal Build Team.

The test laboratory will include a dedicated space for the development of new products and services using Quickline’s 5G technology. The provider is the first in the UK to commercially deliver a pure, standalone 5G fixed wireless network, demonstrating the company is an industry leader in technology and innovation.

NEW FACILITY: Emma Hardy, MP for Hull West and Hessle, talking to Quickline Communications CEO Sean Royce and Chief Operating Officer Lee Allison

The opening of the building comes less than a year after the company re-located its main headquarters to larger premises at Albion Mills, in Willerby. The latest facility replaces its original headquarters off Priory Way, in Hessle, which has been used for equipment storage since the move to Albion Mills.

It marks the latest stage of Quickline’s ongoing growth. The provider has recruited 150 staff in the last 12 months and now has a total of 250 employees.

Hull West and Hessle MP Emma Hardy officially opened the building, which sits in her constituency.

She said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be opening this exciting new facility today.

“I wholeheartedly share Quickline’s view that no community should be left behind and support the company’s roll-out of fast, reliable broadband to rural areas.

EXPANSION: Hull West and Hessle MP Emma Hardy and Quickline Communications CEO Sean Royce at the rural broadband provider’s new training and innovation centre in Hull

“This new centre will enable Quickline to continue its impressive growth, which has seen it become a major employer and an important supporter of the local economy.”

Situated off the A63, the facility is housed in the former ATS tyre fitting and service centre which has been empty for two years, providing easy access for Quickline staff.

It has been completely refurbished in partnership with local property developer Swanbridge Works, using tradespeople from across Hull and East Yorkshire.

Quickline is on a mission to tackle internet inequality affecting households and businesses in rural communities across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.

It has already passed more than 300,000 premises with its existing next generation fixed wireless broadband and is rapidly blending that with a full fibre network creating the UK’s only gigabit capable network using hybrid technology.

INVESTMENT: Quickline Communications Technical Design Authority Kevin Jethwa showing Hull West and Hessle MP Emma Hardy some of the training facilities at the company’s new centre

Quickline CEO Sean Royce said: “The opening of our new facility represents another major investment in the local economy by Quickline.

“It will provide us with an essential, dedicated space to train our people to the highest standard, so they can deliver the outstanding service our customers deserve.

“The test laboratory will also enable our experts to develop new and innovative services with our existing 5G and fibre technologies, as we continue to deliver on our mission to ensure rural communities in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire aren’t left behind.”

Residents and businesses can use Quickline’s postcode checker at www.quickline.co.uk to find out whether a Quickline service is available in their area.