BT's decision to roll out fibre optic broadband to the Cumbrian town of Barrow-in-Furness has been praised by Barrow and Furness MP John Woodcock.

The telecoms giant announced it will deploy super-fast broadband to more than 15,400 homes and businesses across the town by spring 2013 as part of its £2.5 billion investment in the technology.

Customers who sign up for BT's fibre-to-the-cabinet service will initially be able to access speeds of up to 40Mbps, although the company will roughly double this headline rate in the coming weeks.

Earlier this month, it revealed that up to 80Mbps fibre broadband speeds will be available to communications providers from early April. These firms will then decide if and when to roll out the speed boost to their customers.

By subscribing to fibre broadband, consumers will be able to download a music track in two seconds and an entire album in around half a minute.

Responding to the news, Mr Woodcock said it is "very welcome" that BT has finally listened to campaigning residents and businesses who have long called for improved broadband connectivity in and around Barrow.

"This is an important step forward in the drive to secure super-fast broadband across Cumbria so firms can compete and grow, and homes can enjoy modern services," he was quoted by the North-West Evening Mail as saying.

The move has also been praised by Furness Enterprise chief executive Harry Knowles, who stated the organisation is "absolutely delighted" at BT's decision to deliver super-fast broadband to the Cumbrian town.

"We have worked with BT over many years and are very appreciative that they are continuing to invest to realise the great opportunities here," he added.

Several more Cumbrian communities - including Appleby, Millom and Whitehaven - are set to be upgraded to fibre broadband in the coming months, while the technology is already available in Carlisle, Kendal and other areas.

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