Eurotunnel tests networking waters

Eurotunnel is looking to capitalise in the telecoms market with the installation of fibre-optic cables inside the Channel Tunnel.

Named Eurotunnel Telecoms, the network provides a capacity of 40Gbps over a secure network. Within the dry environment of the tunnel, the operator claims it has an easily maintainable system. BT laid the cables in October 1998 and the network is already being used by 20 organisations.

Alan Bertrand, managing director at Eurotunnel Telecoms, claimed the company has an advantage because it is able to offer companies as much bandwidth as it wants and provide quick upgrades. "[The network] can either grow with the companies already signed up as and when they need it - or we can take on more companies," he said.

But he added: "We are in a niche market and are focused on links between Paris and London."

The company faces intense competition in the telecoms arena and is looking to join forces with US operators. It is already in the process of negotiations with some of the leading outfits.

Bertrand believes the company's main advantage is its easy access to the cables through the service tunnel. "They can be accessed at anytime whereas underwater cabling has to face many obstacles to work and develop their infrastructure," he said.

The company is planning to build centres in Folkestone and Calais to connect cables to existing land networks. Also provided is the capacity to allow operators to install their own kit connected to the cables.