Help bring Wiltshire superfast broadband

3rd February 2012, 12:45

If your broadband isn't up to much, it's time to have your say. Wiltshire Council wants to get an idea about which areas here need improving, so they can eventually roll out superfast broadband to most parts of the county.

They are now appealing to local people, businesses and the telecoms industry to get involved and share their views. 

As part of the exercise, broadband providers will be asked about their current networks and whether they have any plans to deploy superfast connections over the next three years. 

Wiltshire Council is working with Swindon Borough and South Gloucestershire councils on the consultation. 

They are particularly keen to hear from people who are receiving less than 2 megabits per second and from people who feel published speeds do not match up to reality. 

Deputy Leader of Wiltshire Council, John Thomson, said: 

"Currently there are 90,000 businesses and homes in Wiltshire which are unable to access superfast broadband. We are committed to ensuring that at least 85 per cent, and hopefully up to 95 per cent, of all premises will be able to access it by 2015."

A survey carried out by the council last year found that 97 per cent of residents and 99 per cent of businesses thought having a good internet connection was 'very important'. 

67 per cent of businesses said they want superfast broadband and almost the same amount thought a faster connection would lead to more productivity. 

Wiltshire Council has received a £4.66m grant towards the project.  

The consultation ends on March 1st.