Broadband funding to boost Stoke-on-Trent

A project worth £9.2 million pounds will begin shortly to boost Stoke-on-Trent’s local infrastructure by installing a citywide gigabit broadband network.

Tens of thousands of businesses and homes will receive full fibre broadband as a result of this project, which will see Stoke-on-Trent City Council developing a 60-mile radius network. The project is set to begin in April this year, and is expected to be completed by springtime 2021.

The success of this development will mean that Stoke-on-Trent will become the first of its kind in the UK to have a gigabit broadband network.

The funds for this project will be sponsored by the government, which was announced during Chancellor Philip Hammond’s Spring Statement.

It is anticipated that, with the creation of a faster and more reliable internet infrastructure, the local economy will be boosted by the number of available jobs and investment pouring into the city from businesses across the country.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, transport and heritage, Councillor Daniel Jellyman, said: “A fast broadband connection is now an essential service for residents and businesses and with these plans Stoke-on-Trent will be leading the way nationally – helping us to attract even more top companies, jobs and investment.

"The new network would have a huge, long-term impact, helping to future proof our city and transform communities with improvements such as better access to employment, education and healthcare.

"The revenue from the ownership of the broadband network would also provide income for the council which can help us to fund the vital services which residents rely on.

"This is a major project for Stoke-on-Trent and will play a key part in our plans for Stoke-on-Trent to become a smart city – using infrastructure, information and technology to improve life for everyone who lives, works and visits here."

The plans are still subject to approval, but once finalised, its details will be circulated to all residents and businesses in the city.