£320 Million Boost for Superfast Broadband in Rural England
Thousands of homes and businesses in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Hampshire are about to get a major internet upgrade thanks to a £318 million government investment. This massive cash injection will bring lightning-fast gigabit broadband to the countryside, transforming how locals bank, shop, work, and stream.
Project Gigabit Powers Up Rural Networks
The contracts, part of the UK government’s £5 billion Project Gigabit, will connect around 218,000 premises in rural and semi-rural areas with speeds up to 10Gbps. CityFibre, the UK’s biggest independent full-fibre provider, secured the deal and is also chipping in £170 million privately to speed things along.
Survey work kicks off immediately. Installations start early next year, with live connections expected by summer 2024 in places like Portsmouth, Beccles, and the Broads.
Major Impact on Local Communities and Economy
- Norfolk: £114 million will connect 62,000 homes and businesses, including Buxton and Castle Acre, with another 8,000 premises under review.
- Suffolk: £100 million will bring gigabit speeds to 80,000 properties in towns like Icklingham and Mellis.
- Hampshire: £104 million will connect 76,000 premises in East Hampshire, Rushmoor, and Test Valley.
CityFibre is pledging to boost local skills too, offering dozens of apprenticeships and internships with guaranteed job offers, plus donating free broadband and internet access to community centres. Environmental efforts will also get a leg-up through grants and volunteer programmes supporting rewilding and conservation.
Official Praise and Future Plans
Minister for Data and Digital Infrastructure Sir John Whittingdale said: “Access to lightning-speed broadband is key to the government’s plans for driving economic growth and levelling up communities. This investment of £318 million in government funding is a significant milestone in achieving that mission.”
CityFibre CEO Greg Mesch added: “Securing three further Project Gigabit contracts firmly establishes CityFibre as an integral delivery partner to the Government for rural connectivity. This strengthens our network and benefits ISPs and customers nationwide.”
Norfolk Council’s Cllr Jane James said: “Increasing reliable broadband for over 60,000 homes and businesses is a great step forward for our rural communities often left behind.”
Suffolk’s Leader Cllr Matthew Hicks commented: “This £100 million will keep Suffolk connected and support many of our small businesses operating from home. It’s essential for our local economy’s future.”
Hampshire Council Leader Rob Humby stated: “I’m proud Hampshire won £104 million to connect 76,000 properties in rural areas which wouldn’t otherwise be commercially viable. This investment will boost economic and social prosperity across the county.”
With gigabit broadband coverage now topping 76% in the UK, this major rollout marks a huge step in future-proofing the nation’s digital infrastructure and powering up local communities where it’s needed most.
