Virgin Media O2 has expanded its gigabit broadband coverage again, this time to a further 2.5 million homes.

That now means more than 12.8 million UK homes can now sign up for its ultrafast speeds, reaching up to 1,130Mbps.

The latest rollout includes Brighton, Colchester, Derby, Gillingham, Portsmouth, Southend, Sheffield, Stoke-on-Trent, Swansea, and Wakefield. The provider plans to have its entire network switched over for gigabit speeds by the end of 2021.

"Our continued investment means more than three-quarters of our network is now gigabit ready," said Virgin Media O2 boss, Lutz Schüler.

"We're investing billions to bring better broadband to homes and businesses across the UK as part of our plans to level up the country. But, we can only do this in partnership, and I'm delighted to see Virgin Media O2 turbocharging its offer of internet connections for millions of families and putting the might of industry behind us," said the UK government's digital secretary, Nadine Dorries.

A Gig1 fibre broadband package starts at £62 per month for broadband alone. That's on an 18-month contract. It includes the Virgin Media Hub 4 router.

Virgin Media O2 also provides "intelligent WiFi pods" at no extra cost for those struggling with Wi-Fi deadzones around the home. 

You can find out more about Gig1 and check if your area is able to get it on the dedicated website here.