The first business has now gone live on the Edinburgh CORE network, which will deliver internet speeds approximately 100 times faster than the UK average.

Media buying firm, Republic of Media is the first business to be connected to the future-proofed ‘pure fibre’ infrastructure, and ahead of schedule due to an incredibly efficient build.

The milestone comes just six months after CityFibre, in partnership with Commsworld, launched their ambitious plans to make the capital a ‘Gigabit City’.

Simon Crunden, Director of Republic of Media, believes the ultra-fast connectivity will play a vital role in ensuring that Edinburgh continues its pace of transformation into a world-renowned digital hub.

Simon said: “A vast proportion of what we do is to help clients make the most of online marketing opportunities. It is therefore essential that we have the fastest, most reliable connection available to us.

“Since hooking up to the ultrafast network earlier this month, connection speeds have been well and truly transformed, which will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the business.”

Ricky Nicol, CEO of Commsworld, is delighted to see the project moving along so swiftly and expects several other businesses to go live in the coming weeks.

He said: “Congratulations to the Republic of Media for becoming the first firm to connect. The buzz has been absolutely incredible. Over 350 businesses have now registered their interest and we’re getting enquiries every day.”

The 150km route of the Edinburgh CORE network throughout the city has been shaped by demand, with CityFibre laying the infrastructure near businesses that have registered their interest in the service. Businesses in the city have been quick to realise the potential operational and financial benefits with more than 350 firms registering to date.

A recent partnership with CGI will also see City of Edinburgh Council roll the ultra-fast network out to its public sector buildings.

James McClafferty, City Development Manager at CityFibre, said: “We are delighted to have the first business connected so soon and thrilled by the amount of interest and hugely positive feedback that we’ve had already.

“Ultra-fast, gigabit connectivity appeals hugely to digitally dependant businesses. As a Gigabit City, Edinburgh is in a privileged position as one of the best digitally connected locations in Europe.”