Local groups to bid for share of £95 million broadband funding pot
In an attempt to improve broadband speeds and reliability in various regional parts of the UK, local authorities have been invited to submit an expression of interest to secure a portion of £95 million designated specifically to boost connectivity throughout the country.
In 2017, Chancellor Philip Hammond assigned £1 billion to drive out faster and more full fibre network programmes across the UK, whilst also supporting the development of 5G mobile connectivity.
A fraction of this money – specifically £190 million – has been put towards the Local Full Fibre Networks (LFFN) Challenge Fund which will be used to increase commercial investment in country-wide systems.
Since the launch of this funding pot, two successful grant rounds have already passed, and now the remaining £95 million is available for bidding. Successful projects will receive investment to fund gigabit capable connections to major public buildings and businesses in local areas, as well as to encourage broadband providers to boost the number of internet connections to homes and companies in the vicinity.
Margot James, the Minister for Digital, said: “We recently set out our ambition for a nationwide full-fibre broadband network by 2033, and initiatives like this will be instrumental in achieving that. We want to hear from any local authority interested in taking part, so we can work closely with them on their plans to help them secure funding.”
Although there is no formal cut-off date for submissions, the final decision for delegating the funds will be taken by the Local Full Fibre Networks Investment Panel who will examine proposals in depth. Finalists will then be invited to engage in a discussion with government officials who will further assess plans and assist authorities in shaping their approaches.
Projects that will be given particular attention are those that focus on rural areas, improve 5G mobile connectivity, increase public sector productivity, and boost market development.
