Rural areas get a raw deal with broadband

Whilst most people know that those in rural areas of the UK are getting a raw deal when it comes to broadband, a recent report has shown just how unfair the situation is for those in rural parts of the country.

Most people are already well aware that people and businesses that are in rural areas of the UK are not particularly lucky when it comes to broadband. For a number of years there have been many complaints about the poor access and speeds that those in rural parts of the country receive when it comes to broadband services.

However, a recent survey has revealed the extent of the suffering of those in rural parts of the country when it comes to broadband, revealing that those living and working in these areas are paying twice the amount as those living in urban areas but are also getting slower speeds.

One industry official said: “Unfortunately, internet service providers only choose to invest in telephone exchanges where they know that they will make a good return. As a result rural and poorer postcodes may not meet the investment criteria. To add insult to injury, these “off-net” services generally offer lower broadband speeds meaning customers are faced with paying more money for slower average broadband speeds.”

The data comes as part of a study into broadband in rural areas in order to encourage the government and providers to put more weight behind the provision of faster, more affordable broadband services in these areas.

Are you living or working in a rural area and paying a high price for slow broadband?

Source – IT Pro Portal