THE ROLLOUT of the next-generation broadband in Worcestershire has reached an important milestone, with the first homes and businesses now connected through the Government’s Project Gigabit programme.
The £41million contract between Building Digital UK (BDUK) and Openreach will bring gigabit-capable broadband to more than 20,000 premises across the county’s hardest-to-reach areas.
The first live connections are now serving properties in Lower Broadheath, Hallow, Powick and Callow End, while network build activity is also underway in and around Knightwick.
The project is designed to deliver fast, reliable broadband to rural communities that are unlikely to benefit from commercial investment alone, giving access to speeds in excess of 1,000Mbps, subject to the chosen package.
Coun Adam Kent, cabinet member with responsibility for finance, corporate services and business at Worcestershire County Council, said: “This is a brilliant moment for Worcestershire. The first homes and businesses in Lower Broadheath, Hallow, Powick and Callow End are now plugged into some of the fastest broadband in the country – and the diggers are already moving on to the next communities.
“Worcestershire is a county that means business, and this £41 million investment makes sure no village or rural enterprise is left behind.
“Whether you’re running a company from a converted barn, studying from home or streaming with the family, gigabit broadband puts world-class connectivity right on your doorstep.
“This is Worcestershire building the infrastructure of the future, today.”
Worcestershire County Council’s Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity Team continues to work closely with BDUK and Openreach to support delivery of the programme and ensure public investment is targeted effectively.
Further work is also underway to explore opportunities to bring additional premises into the contract.
Project Gigabit forms part of the UK Government’s £5 billion national programme, helping extend gigabit-capable broadband coverage across the country and supporting Worcestershire’s ambitions for improved digital connectivity.
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