Rural areas could be prioritised in super-fast broadband access

Rural areas of the UK could enjoy being prioritised when it comes to the super-fast broadband rollout, with the Environment Secretary calling a summit with ISPs to sort out how this can be done.

Rural areas in the UK have suffered more than most when it comes to broadband access, with many of these areas having little or no broadband access which is particularly problematic for businesses who may be reliant on modern technology such as broadband in order to develop their business.

However, according to recent reports rural parts of the country may be set to receive priority when it comes to the rollout of superfast broadband, which will come as excellent news for many residents and businesses in these areas. The government has recently said that it will be using licence fee money to ensure that the countryside is connected to adequate broadband services as quickly as urban areas.

It is also reported that the new Environment Secretary is arranging to meet up with Internet Providers with the aim of discussing how rural areas can be given priority when it comes to rolling out super-fast broadband services. Many believe that the new coalition government is committed to ensuring that those living and working in rural areas get a fair deal when it comes to broadband access.

Caroline Spelman, the new Environment Secretary, said: “We know from the Rural Advocate’s report earlier this year that a lack of broadband access is restricting the opportunities which exist for young people who live in the countryside. We know, too, this hampers the work of farmers in many areas and isolates many other groups. So we will prioritise the roll-out of broadband to rural neighbourhoods, bringing everyone the same benefits and opportunities of digital technology which so many of us already enjoy.”

Source – Yorkshire Post