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Devon and Somerset prepare superfast broadband pilot bids
Wednesday 30th March 2011, by Daniel King
Devon and Somerset county councils are preparing a sizeable bid in an attempt to secure superfast broadband for the across the two south-west regions.
The local authorities are hopeful that, if successful, the improved internet connectivity will support business growth in the region, opening up new markets and encouraging enterprise.
Speaking to This is the West Country, Devon County councillor Will Mumford described the bid as a "significant milestone".
He told the newspaper: "From filing VAT returns to farming records, most of the government departments are shifting to online submission, so it is vital that people can access a reliable and consistent service at an acceptable speed."
According to the BBC, Somerset County Council is drawing up a £7 million bid to secure better connections.
The move is being welcomed by local businesses. John Haynes, chairman of Sparkford-based publisher Haynes, told the broadcaster: "When I look at our operations in places like Romania and Holland where they enjoy superfast broadband, they can have video conferencing while reducing costs.
"It's needed to encourage entrepreneurial activity."
The applications are being made under the Broadband Delivery UK scheme, which will use £530 million to stimulate broadband infrastructure investment.
Reports of Somerset and Devon's bids come less than a week after Cumbria County Council submitted their application to begin the procurement process tender for superfast broadband.
The Broadband Delivery UK goal is to provide fibre-point connectivity to every community in the UK under the coalition government. This includes ensuring access for both homes and businesses, even in the most remote areas.
Launching the scheme on December 6th 2010, secretary of state for culture, olympics, media and sport Jeremy Hunt noted: "Our goal is simple: within this parliament we want Britain to have the best superfast broadband network in Europe."
Categories: Broadband, Business Broadband
