“Dozens of broadband network providers are expected to bid for six contracts to improve broadband connections in Somerset and Devon.
The second phase of a superfast broadband scheme for Somerset has been launched this week by Connecting Devon and Somerset (CDS).”
This does not include East Devon, which decided to “go it alone”, applied for grants and was turned down because too much of the project was like the one they left!
Recently, the government has said EVERYONE must get a decent broadband service and is bringing in legislation to this effect:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/consumer-interests-at-heart-of-digital-economy-bill
and a Parliamentary Briefing paper just published states:
“Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK) part of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) is responsible for implementing the Government’s policy on superfast broadband roll-out which consists of three stages:
• provide superfast broadband coverage to 90% of UK premises by early 2016 and access to basic broadband (2Mbps) for all from December 2015 – “Phase 1”
• provide superfast broadband coverage to 95% of UK premises by the end of 2017 – “Phase 2”
• explore options to provide superfast coverage to the hardest to reach parts of the UK – “the final 5%”
The BDUK coverage targets include the commercial roll-out, however, the BDUK programme and funding is focussed on those areas that are not reached by the commercial roll-out.”
BRIEFING PAPER, Number CBP06643, 4 July 2016
So, where does this leave East Devon? Over to you, Councillor Twiss, Broadband Supremo ….
East Devon Watch 