Call on
The project
The project was a monumental task of engineering and logistics, with a goal to bridge geographical and connectivity divides with a new seamless digital network.
About Ogi
Ogi is a leader in alternative fibre telecommunications, working to expand digital infrastructure across South Wales for the benefit of the UK.
In partnership with the Welsh Government, their project extends a full fibre network from England across the Prince of Wales Bridge into Newport and Cardiff, creating a high-capacity route in the Western Gateway.
The challenge
Navigating engineering and geographical hurdles our team was brought in to help Ogi deliver the network across a 7.5km stretch from the Prince of Wales Bridge to junction 23A at Magor, where traditional duct installation was not feasible due to complex engineering challenges posed by varying road types and the land’s geography.
The solution
2Rent’s Innovative Narrow Trenching Methodologies
Using narrow trenching, Ogi quickly and cost-effectively deployed its network along the M4’s hard shoulder at night to minimise disruption. Over several nights, 3.5km of ducting was laid, covering 300-400m per night, ensuring the motorway was ready by 7am.
The Cleanfast trencher excavated and vacuumed material, followed by the Innomixer, which batched and pumped concrete on-site. The trench was then sealed with mastic, reducing the need for compaction and lowering both carbon footprint and costs.
The result
A groundbreaking success, Ogi’s innovative microtrenching approach on the M4 motorway set a new benchmark for network expansion projects.
Covering 3.5km in just two weeks, this achievement was a first for Wales and exceeded traditional methods.
The Welsh Government now sees it as a model for future deployments.
2Rent’s involvement played a key role in the project’s success, contributing to a more connected, digitally integrated Western Gateway.