Staffordshire is set to benefit from a £7.4million broadband boost.
The region has been awarded the money by the Government to help internet providers improve their services across the county.
Through a process of public consultation, which has included a broadband survey and roadshows, Staffordshire County Council has been gathering evidence of areas where internet access is an issue. Feedback gathered from residents and businesses along the way has also highlighted that they want a faster, more reliable service from commercial providers.
County Councillor Mark Winnington, Cabinet Member for Environment and Assets, said:
“We share the Government’s commitment to improving the broadband network and this funding is most welcome. It will help us to work with broadband companies to improve the services they provide to residents and businesses throughout Staffordshire.
“We know that broadband really matters to people in Staffordshire – over 1,000 people have completed our broadband survey, and 400 people came to our roadshows in June and July – so we’re getting the evidence we need to make sure this funding is used most effectively.
“Our broadband survey remains open until August 31 and I’d urge anyone who wants to see better broadband where they live to take part in the survey – if you’d like us to help, we must hear from you.”
The broadband survey is open to any residents or businesses in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, and is available at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/broadbandconsultation. Anyone who cannot complete the survey online can request a printed copy by calling Staffordshire County Council on 0300 111 8000.