Suffolk’s bid to build a broadband network fit for the twenty first century has taken a step closer – with the Government expected to make a funding decision for Suffolk next month.
Representatives from Suffolk have held positive talks with officials from the Government’s broadband body - and advised them how Suffolk County Council intends to invest up to £10 million in the project over the next four years.
Suffolk County Council’s Leader, Councillor Mark Bee, said:
“The discussions we’ve had with Broadband Delivery UK have been very positive and I’m pleased to say that our planned £10 million investment appears to be having the right impact.
“We must not underestimate the impact that securing this investment will have on local business growth, improving educational attainment and removing a major block to public service transformation in Suffolk.
“I very much hope the financial contribution we’ve pledged, and the partnership approach we’ve taken with our business, community, council and parliamentary colleagues, will secure the vital government support we need.”
The total cost of the Suffolk broadband project is estimated at £41.7 million, of which approximately half should come from the private sector. Suffolk County Council has committed up to £10m in the expectation that BDUK will match that amount.
The Government has set aside £530 million to support broadband projects around the country. Indicative funding decisions are expected to be announced in the first two weeks of July.
Given that Creeting St Peter is particularly poorly served, being as it is a long way from the telephone exchange, and dependent on aging telecoms infrastructure, villagers can only hope that the bid is successful.
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