Warnings About Fibre Rollout

'Uncoordinated and inefficient' rollout of full fibre internet across the UK is creating a digital and economic divide in the North of England

20:37 29 March 2019

Political leaders have warned that the North of England is highly likely to face the prospect of a digital and economic divide due to “uncoordinated and inefficient” rollout of full fibre internet connections across the UK. They have called on the Government to deliver full fibre to the premises (FTTP) to every business and home in the top 30 Northern towns and cities by 2025.

 

 

 

Coun Susan Hinchcliffe, the chairman of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and leader of Bradford Council, said: “The social and economic advantages unlocked by full fibre investment are immense, and sit alongside the major new and improved transport connectivity which we also need, such as through the Northern Powerhouse Rail network with a city centre Bradford station.”

 

 

 

“These digital networks must be rolled-out as quickly and efficiently as possible if the Northern Powerhouse is to maximise the benefits. “Through its refresh of the Northern Powerhouse strategy, the Government can show how it will address the weaknesses in the current regime which create waste and inefficiencies. They should give combined authorities the powers and flexibility on capital funding to deliver this vitally important infrastructure for our businesses and communities.”