Broadband provider i3 Group has begun installing a 100Mb fibre-optic network in Sheffield.

The company, also known as H20 Networks, promises that its first Fibrezone network in Yorkshire will provide carrier-grade connectivity at a much cheaper price.

Following rollouts in Dundee and Bournemouth, i3 intends to centre the new network on Sheffield's bustling city centre.

It will use fibre-optic broadband cabling installed in the region by internet service provider ASK4 two years ago.

Roy Shelton, Commercial Director at i3, said that the Fibrezone network will allow the group to expand its presence in Sheffield and provide low-cost, high-bandwidth broadband for homes and businesses.

"Our success in Sheffield has proven there is a huge demand for Fibrezone and will therefore drive our planned rollout of a further ten over the next 12 months."

Prior to the publications of the Digital Britain report, i3 Group warned the government that setting broadband speed targets based on today's internet usage patterns would lead to the deployment of quickly-outdated technology.