Superfast broadband provision across Cherwell came a step closer last night (23 June) when the council’s Executive backed a recommendation to invest £500,000.
Cherwell is working closely with Oxfordshire County Council who in turn are working with BDUK to increase the coverage of superfast broadband. The money is set to make 95 per cent coverage a reality across the district, and will bring rural business units within the coverage.
The cash boost will be funded from the council’s New Homes Bonus, which is set aside for economic development activity.
Cllr Ken Atack, Cherwell District Council lead member for finance, said: “Cherwell is committed to improving superfast broadband across the district. It’s a boon, not only to our residents, but also to our business community – and in an ever increasingly competitive environment we want to help Cherwell continue to thrive economically. This cash will help make superfast broadband a reality for almost all of the district.”
Once the 95 per cent figure has been achieved, Cherwell continue to work with providers, communities, parish councils and other organisations to achieve as close to 100 per cent as possible.
Cllr Atack added: “Cherwell’s ambition is to reach, as near we can, 100 per cent district superfast broadband coverage. Progress towards this is already under evaluation. This includes looking at the associated technology and exploring potential match funding options for interested communities.”