Update on Grants & Progress

To date 164 applications have now been processed. 40 application forms were returned requiring additional information, this was collated by Phil and resubmitted. Just 12 are now awaiting an outcome. 4 properties allegedly have 30Mbs. Speed tests have been carried out and the actual speed achieved is between 7.5 and 15Mbs ! This information will go back to the Welsh Government for further consideration.

Investment

As per the request, investment monies have been paid into Michaelston-Y-Fedw Internet CIC  Account. We have 88% of the funds with a couple of investors to pay their contributions. This is excellent news, Michaelston-Y-Fedw Internet CIC is now in a financial position to purchase materials and actually begin the work.

Sub-Groups

Wayleaves

Wayleaves are in place for Fairwater Farm, which is where the work will commence by Thomas Bros. on 12^th February providing materials have arrived.

Elayne, Rob and Gareth are progressing in getting the remaining Wayleave Agreements in place ready for the work to continue around the village.

Route

The Route Map continues to evolve and will be subject to minor changes as trenching takes place. The siting of the cabinet will of course determine where the start points for each “leg” and the incoming fibre from the Server.

Ground Works & Civils, Technical Design & Installation

Thomas Bros. have confirmed that they are able to start on 12^th February. Both a Verbal and Written Agreement are now in place and they are awaiting the imminent arrival of materials.

Volunteers

Jim Dunk is managing the Volunteers and will have his work cut out once the actual work begins. We have a good number of volunteers and are always looking for more people willing to give their time, enthusiasm and skills to making this project a success for the community.

12 people are ready for the demo and training for “splice, fuse, test and measurement”. We are awaiting notification of the date for the demo and training to take place

Co-Ordinator for Services

Thank you to Brinley and Lilian Richards who have volunteered to work with the Services ( Gas, Electricity, Telephone and Water Companies) to ensure that their pipes and cables can be clearly shown on the map and that no damage is done during the trenching process.

Container /Cabinet

We are currently awaiting the renewal of the Lease by Newport Council for the Village Hall which will subsequently enable the Village hall committee to grant a sub-lease for Michaelston-Y-Fedw Internet CIC to use the Container already sited in the Village Hall car park.

However, we have a suitable alternative, which is the use of a Cabinet which will be sited in a different location.

The final decision will be confirmed on Friday 9^th February and subsequently the electricity supply can be organised.

Materials

A verbal agreement has been made with Emtelle for the first order of ducting. A formal order is now being prepared. We are expecting delivery before 12^th February when work is expected to commence.

HNS

A contract has been signed with HNS for the provision of services for our internet. They have confirmed the supply and how they are going to support it. Ie. Remote monitoring, Engineering Support , Virus monitoring etc. They are awaiting the location of the cabinet to begin the supply of fibre to Cabinet/ Container.

We have been reminded that as a Service Provider HNS will not be providing PC advice and any viruses are the responsibility of the individual to manage with anti- virus software. This is no different to any other Internet Service Provider.

AOB

An information sheet will be prepared clarifying the requirements for the installation to take place once the ducting and fibre is at the boundary of properties, which will guide you through the process for connection into your property.

Date for next Meeting

The next meeting will be on Thursday 15th February 2018 in the Village Hall at 7.30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.