Superfast Broadband Heading to Somerset

Superfast fibre broadband coming to more than 56,000 homes and business premises in Somerset by 2024.

14:48 07 January 2021

Connecting Devon and Somerset (CDS) has confirmed that superfast fibre broadband will become accessible to more than 56,000 homes and businesses premises in Somerset by 2024. The announcement follows the awarding of new contracts after Gigaclear's contract was terminated after a series of delays. 

 

According to CDS, three different companies will undertake the remainder of the roll-out over the next three to four years to provide up to 95per cent coverage. The scheme is funded by the government, local authorities and the three new contractors - Wessex Internet, Airband and Truespeed. 

 

Councillor David Hall, Somerset County Council’s cabinet member for economic development, planning and community infrastructure, said: “We’re pleased to confirm the appointment of three well-established, regionally-based suppliers to help with the challenge of delivering the next phase of the CDS programme.

 

“They have significant experience of delivering broadband connections in rural areas of Devon and Somerset, so they have an understanding of the remote areas where CDS is looking to improve connectivity.

 

“This investment will deliver full fibre broadband ahead of many other parts of the country.”

 

Karl Tucker, chairman of the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), added: “The appointment of the three suppliers to deliver the roll-out of full fibre coverage to people and businesses into thousands of rural homes and businesses in the Heart of the South West LEP area is good news.

 

“It has never been more vital than it is now to ensure our communities and businesses have access to good connectivity and the three companies all have extensive experience of working in our area.

 

“We are delighted to be supporting this programme through our growth deal funding.”