Rufford and Moreton Towers

The Development

For decades, Rufford and Moreton Towers stood as aging giants in Acton Town, their exteriors a tangle of outdated cables and satellite dishes, a stark reminder of the digital divide.

The two 20-storey residential buildings in Acton Town are part of a broader regeneration project led by the London Borough of Ealing. The scheme includes 188 new homes across three buildings and improvements to the public spaces and infrastructure around the existing towers.

The Challenge

With the refurbishment came the need for an upgraded digital infrastructure. The existing TV, broadband, and telephone networks were outdated, with external cabling and multiple satellite dishes cluttering the buildings' exteriors.

The goal was to introduce a modern, future-proof system that would improve connectivity for residents while maintaining building integrity and ensuring compliance with new fire safety regulations.

The Delivery

SCCI Alphatrack, working alongside main contractor WG Wiggington, was tasked with upgrading the communication infrastructure. The work included the installation of an Integrated Reception System (IRS), the renewal of the CATV and BT copper networks, and achieving full fire-stopping compliance.

Recognising the need for a truly future-proof solution, SCCI Alphatrack proposed a full-fibre network. This would not only deliver lightning-fast internet speeds but also create a robust infrastructure capable of supporting the community's evolving digital needs.

In order to fully future proof the scheme, whilst ensuring residents would have a choice of service providers in the future, the client opted to implement a multi fibre solution—enter 4Fibre.

The Outcome

The 4Fibre solution was implemented, linking all apartments via three distribution points per building. These were connected back to two central ‘meet-me’ points, where up to four internet service providers (ISPs) could plug in and deliver services instantly.

This approach offered several key benefits:

• Minimal disruption – The upgrade was completed in around 12 weeks with little inconvenience to residents.

• Fire safety compliance – All cabling was installed with proper fire stopping, eliminating the need for future modifications that might compromise safety.

• Choice for residents – The infrastructure allows multiple ISPs to offer services without additional installations.

• No cost to residents or the council – The system was introduced at no charge to the council, developers, or residents.

• Long-term durability – The building’s digital infrastructure is now fully future-proof, reducing the need for further upgrades.

A Smarter Approach to Connectivity

The Rufford and Moreton Towers project highlights how intelligent network planning can enhance digital accessibility while preserving the aesthetics and integrity of multi-dwelling units. By integrating a shared fibre solution, the buildings are now equipped to meet modern connectivity needs efficiently and sustainably.

Paul Moxham, Mechanical and Electrical Project Manager for the London Borough of Ealing, summed it up:

With this system in place, residents of Rufford and Moreton Towers now have access to high-speed internet with multiple provider options—all without the need for repeated installations or disruptive works in the years to come.

Long-Term Impact

The regeneration of Rufford and Moreton Towers stands as a testament to the power of innovative infrastructure solutions. This project has not only transformed the physical landscape but also empowered residents with the digital tools they need to thrive in the 21st century. It serves as a model for future regeneration projects, demonstrating how strategic investment in connectivity can create vibrant and sustainable communities