Businesses in the Burnham-On-Sea area could soon enjoy superfast broadband internet speeds if Somerset County Council’s bid for millions of pounds of government funding is successful.
Both Somerset and Devon are submitting a joint bid this month to upgrade internet access across the south west, with a decision expected to be announced in May.
If successful, superfast broadband speeds around ten times that of normal broadband would become available as part of a national £530m central government funding initiative.
“If approved, it is anticipated that the roll-out of broadband to Somerset businesses would start in 2012, and be complete by 2015, leading to better broadband for everyone, and superfast broadband for most,” said Sheila Wheeler, Chief Executive at Somerset County Council this week.
“Having had conversations with business leaders in Somerset over the past few months, I know that superfast and reliable broadband is top of your wish-list, and will prove a huge boost for Somerset’s economy.”
She added: “To convince central government of the importance to Somerset of superfast broadband, businesses should complete a survey about the proposals by giving their support to the bid here.”
