Cash injection to improve internet speed in region

The Mayor of the West of England is investing nearly three quarters of a million pounds in broadband connectivity across Bath, Bristol and the combined authority area.

More local people will be able to get online in internet and smartphone “not spots” thanks to a cash injection of £498,000 secured by Metro Mayor Dan Norris, inset, who leads the West of England Combined Authority.

The cash from Government, together with a £250,000 investment from the combined authority, will help to identify how 5G can be used to rapidly improve mobile connectivity across the West of England, and get everyone working closely together to update digital infrastructure.

With more people working, studying, shopping and playing online, better connectivity is more important than ever.

On average we each spend over three and a half hours online every day. More than a quarter of retail sales are online, and three-quarters of people use online banking. But the vital digital infrastructure has not kept pace, especially in some more rural areas. “This investment will help more local people get the internet access they need and deserve,” said Dan Norris.

“The West of England Combined Authority which I lead will now accelerate the rollout of wireless networks so more people can get online more easily.

“This should especially help people living and working in our more rural communities. At the moment some of the most beautiful places to live are let down by poor access to the online world which is vital for success today. This is a great step forward to fix this.”