Superfast broadband on the way
HOMES and businesses in Aberconwy, Abergele and Llandudno can now access superfast broadband as the Superfast Cymru programme begins rolling out across the county.
Superfast Cymru, a partnership between the Welsh Government, UK Government, the European Regional Development Fund and BT, is delivering high-speed fibre broadband to areas which otherwise might not receive it.
The Welsh Government’s target is to make fibre available to 96% of premises in Wales by Spring 2016.
Roll out in Conwy is scheduled to see Ty’n y Groes, Penmaenmawr and Cerrigydrudion receive access to superfast speeds thisMarch, with all exchange areas in the county being live before the end of September.
Mary Norton, who runs a business called Cerrigydrudion Cottages commented: “I can’t wait for superfast broadband, although it’s a shame it has been delayed.
“As I understand we were supposed to receive it last December, not in March.
“I think it will really help my business, as sometimes the signal can be very dodgy here and the internet slow.”
Nick Fergueson who has a company offering computer services based in Cerrigydrudion said: “If you happen to live near an exchange then the broadband service in the area isn’t bad, but if you live two or three miles away from one then it’s very slow.
“I go and see clients and something which should take around 30 minutes, takes me around five hours, it’s very frustrating.”
Deputy Minister for Skills and Technology Julie James said: “It’s great news the first homes and businesses in Conwy County now have access to fast fibre broadband through the Superfast Cymru scheme.
“We are committed to seeing Wales become a truly digital nation and the Superfast Cymru scheme is playing a vital role in helping us become one of the most connected countries in the world by Spring 2016.”
Households and businesses are not connected to fast fibre broadband automatically. Customers who want superfast speeds need to contact an internet service provider (ISP) to sign up to receive the technology.
There are a variety of ISPs offering fibre broadband in Wales so customers can shop around and choose the package that is best for them.
If they choose not to upgrade to fibre broadband, they will be able to continue using their existing broadband service.
For more details of the scheme go to www.superfast-cymru.com.