Atterbury has positioned itself to bring the future of communications within reach of its clients and tenants, by signing a deal with Vox (Frogfoot Networks) for the roll-out of fibre network and connectivity infrastructure in its developments. We get the lowdown about this move towards smart environments from Atterbury’s Stoffel van Beek.
Why the decision to formalize an agreement with a fibre provider?
We like to do transactions where there is mutual benefit for both parties and where the deal is fair to all. This is a good example of where the landlord benefits from having a dedicated open-access network provider with a proven track record at a good market price; and the service provider is getting the benefit of access to clients to further expand their footprint. The open-access network provides tenants with the opportunity to remain with their existing internet service provider should they wish to do so, which is healthy for competitive rates.
How is this expected to benefit Atterbury and its clients – what is the expected impact of having fibre in place of traditional telecommunications infrastructure?
The demand for high-speed connectivity has become nonnegotiable and the cost of data can be the determining factor between sites. We want to offer our tenants the best value for money and having access to fibre connectivity has become essential.
Is this going to be used in all Atterbury developments going forward?
Yes, we will endeavour to carry them in on every future development and where the opportunity presents itself on the existing developments.
What will be the first new project to include this game-changing infrastructure as the standard set-up? Will this require anything special or different in terms of how a project roll-out is planned?
We have agreed that we will use The Club precinct development as the “test site” and so far everything is looking great. The fibre line to our new office at Die Klubhuis was in place ahead of schedule and we are busy commissioning. The remainder of the precinct is to follow.
What are you personally most excited about in terms of how this changes the way developments are approached, and what a developer can offer its clients?
Partnering with like-minded people is what we are always keen on! Vox offers a whole suite of technology solutions and the provision of quality fibre at affordable rates, as the first stop, places us in a position to pass this on to our tenants. And as we always say: “It’s a matter of association!”
