Wessex Internet Snatches £14M Government Contract for New Forest Broadband Blitz
Wessex Internet has landed a lucrative £14 million government contract to bring blazing-fast full-fibre broadband to around 10,500 homes and businesses in the New Forest. This timely boost means thousands will finally enjoy reliable gigabit speeds in this stunning rural hotspot.
Project Gigabit Fuels Broadband Revolution
The three-year deal is part of the UK government’s ambitious £5 billion Project Gigabit, designed to tackle rural connectivity blackspots across the nation. Wessex Internet will roll out its fibre optic network to key New Forest communities, including Brockenhurst, Burley, Beaulieu, Godshill, Hordle, and Sway.
Construction kicks off by the end of 2023, with the first homes expected to be hooked up by February 2024.
High-Speed Promise Backed by Ministers and Locals
Digital Infrastructure Minister Julia Lopez gushed: “Thanks to this latest multi-million pound contract for the New Forest, thousands of hard-to-reach homes and businesses in this stunning area will benefit from a state-of-the-art network ready to provide the speed and reliability we will all need in the decades ahead.”
She added: “The Prime Minister’s focus on growing the economy is clear, and this investment boosts digital infrastructure to rural areas, ensuring the New Forest is future-proofed for a digital age.”
Wessex Internet CEO: “Gigabit Connectivity Will Transform Lives”
Hector Gibson Fleming, CEO of Wessex Internet, said: “This is great news for the New Forest’s homes and businesses, who will gain access to world-class connectivity and all the economic and social benefits it brings. We’ll work closely with local communities to deliver this exciting programme.”
“Being awarded our second Project Gigabit contract shows our team’s commitment and expertise in bringing gigabit-capable broadband to even the most remote countryside communities,” he added.
Local Backing from Forestry England
Forestry England’s spokesperson said: “We look forward to supporting Wessex Internet’s delivery of ultrafast full fibre broadband on sensitive Forestry England land. This upgrade will positively impact many New Forest residents.”
Why It Matters
- Full-fibre broadband means lightning-fast internet with no buffering.
- Businesses in rural areas can boost productivity and compete globally.
- Residents enjoy smoother streaming, gaming, and remote work capabilities.
- Public services become more accessible in remote communities.
This follows Wessex Internet’s successful Project Gigabit win in North Dorset last year, connecting over 7,000 properties. The Dorset-based, award-winning firm is renowned for pushing digital frontiers in the countryside, building networks across Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire, and South Somerset.
