I just spoken to few neighbours in my area (VM cable) they told me they have no issues for 3 years now (only downtime when there is power cut)
I check on their website they got 1Gig available in my address for 40.99 a month (18 months contract) no set up fee. So, I might go for VM 1Gig after xmas in January. But it will increase price in April 2025 and April 2026 during 18 months contract) probably will rise to 48.99 a month by 2026.
I was on gig1 in 2022/2023 and it was good, so there is a fair chance they have improved.
Also you have 2 weeks after it is installed to choose to change your mind without penalty.
Also one step at a time, the first 18 months will be good price, then you can make another decision at end of that 18 months, by then you might have more options.