New figures show that the rollout of the government-funded superfast broadband has now reached more than three million homes and businesses
More than three million homes and businesses have been reached by the Government’s nationwide rollout of superfast broadband, figures published today reveal.
The rollout is delivering superfast access – internet speeds greater than 24 Mbps – to those properties not covered by existing commercial networks and is on track to take superfast access to 95 per cent of the UK by 2017. More than four out of five UK homes and businesses already have access to superfast speeds, and the rollout is currently reaching an additional 40,000 homes and businesses every week.
This comes following recent news that BT will make up to £129m available to extend the Government led rollout of superfast broadband across the UK.
However Dr Adam Marshall, Executive Director of Policy and External Affairs at the British Chambers of Commerce feels more needs to be done
“No one should be patting themselves on the back because an unambitious target is likely to be met in two years’ time. Across the UK, far too many businesses and consumers still have insufficient or unreliable broadband coverage, which stops entrepreneurs and exporters in their tracks. While many are in rural areas, ‘not-spots’ plague companies even near our major cities.
“If we want to be the most prosperous country in the world, we need to have the best digital infrastructure in the world, and we’re a long way from that. Ministers and regulators need to set their sights – and their investment commitments – higher.”
Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce said
“Although it is positive that more Norfolk businesses are able to access a better broadband service but there is no room to be complacent. In order to service our growing digital sector we need faster speeds which will allow our businesses to compete on the global stage. In addition many businesses across Norfolk are still waiting to be able to upgrade which is inhibiting their growth.
“However the broadband connection voucher of up to £3,000 is still available in the Norwich area and can help to acquire a faster service. This funding is national and time related to I could encourage any business eligible to check out if they can access this fund to support their business.”
