Broadband scheme extended to include 'slowspots'

The Welsh Assembly Government has confirmed that the Welsh Broadband Support Scheme has been extended to include 'slowspots'.

Residents, communities, businesses and third sector groups currently located in broadband 'notspots', where connectivity is less than 512Kbps can apply for a grant of up to £1,000 to give them access to a broadband connection using the most appropriate technology available. The announcement will extend the scheme to include 'slowspots', where connectivity is less than 2Mbps.

The scheme, designed to reduce the number of rural areas of the country without broadband Internet. It will enable individuals and communities in Wales' remaining broadband 'not-spots' to approach service providers directly, with support of Assembly Government funding.

Initial funding of around £2 million has been allocated, with discussions now under way to access European assistance from the Rural Development Plan. Support is available for up to a maximum of £1,000 for individual premises, covering up to 100% of costs.

The scheme is technology neutral and the Welsh Assembly Government does not favour any particular type of technology; however, examples of the types of broadband solutions that could be supported include:

§ a broadband satellite connection installed for the home or business;

§ a community purchasing a 'larger scale' satellite connection which is distributed around the village by a small wireless network;

§ a wireless network being delivered by a service provider across a community; and

§ a community purchasing a next generation broadband service such as Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC).

Individuals, communities, small to medium-sized businesses and third sector organisations in Wales may apply.

Applications may be submitted at any time.

Go to: http://wales.gov.uk/topics/businessandeconomy/broadbandandict/broadband/bbss/?lang=en

Source: Welsh Assembly Government, 06/07/11