Client: RSPB Minsmere

The Project: High-Speed Connectivity for RSPB Minsmere

In September 2022, the team at 2 Rent partnered with Openreach and MakeHappen to take on a significant infrastructure project at RSPB Minsmere, one of the UK’s largest and most heavily protected conservation areas.

The mission was clear: install 2km of high-speed fibre to the site, without disrupting its delicate ecosystems and daily influx of visitors.

The Challenge

RSPB Minsmere isn’t a regular site; it’s a central hub for rare birds and a stronghold of biodiversity, classified under several conservation statuses, including Special Protection Area and Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Because of this, normal methodologies that would disturb the area for months and involve digging on the verge were not allowed. It is also a dense woodland area, making aerial cable installation unfeasible.

The project needed a smart solution that minimised the ecological impact and inconvenience for the site’s workers and visitors.

Our Solution

Using our specialist microtrenching methodologies, we collaborated with Openreach, MakeHappen, the RSPB and highway authorities to dig trenches in the centre of the road – avoiding the protected verges.

This allowed us to protect the natural habitats and complete the work quickly, efficiently, and responsibly.

The timing was critical. To ensure minimal disruption, we carried out the trenching at times that would least affect visitor access. This meant the road closures were as brief as possible, and at times where there was the lowest visitor traffic.

The Results

What would typically take months to complete was finished in just 2 nights and 3 days. Our use of microtrenching equipment not only sped up the installation but did so in an environmentally friendly manner. The project’s success showcased 2 Rent’s ability to deliver quick, reliable solutions that respect environmental responsibility and visitor experiences.