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Newquay surf business claims super-fast broadband is crucial
Super-fast broadband access can have a galvanising effect on business in Cornwall, an entrepreneur has claimed.
Andy Goodall, partner at inkydeep, told the Cornish Guardian that next-generation internet access has a number of potential applications for businesses, allowing them to market their products using tools such as online videos, as well as facilitating the increasingly important role played by international trading.
"New channels are emerging all the time and superfast broadband will enable us to exploit these ways of communicating to potential customers," suggested Mr Goodall.
He went on to say that the full potential of super-fast broadband access for changing the way companies work is not yet fully apparent, with more to be revealed in this field over the coming years.
Mr Goodall's comments came after the Cornwall Development Company noted that 66,000 premises in the region can now access the service, with the Superfast Cornwall partnership aiming to increase this figure to 80 per cent by the end of 2014.
This will involve a major investment, especially given the fact that Cornwall's geographically diverse terrain means wireless and satellite broadband will need to be rolled out in addition to fibre optic infrastructure.
Up to £53.5 million in funding for the project is coming from the European Regional Development Fund Convergence Programme, while BT will invest roughly £78.5 million in helping the project move forward.
Nigel Ashcroft, programme director of the Superfast Cornwall initiative, said increased internet speeds "can give businesses a competitive edge and offer a range of educational and entertainment opportunities for households".
Everything Everywhere and BT Wholesale recently announced an extension to their successful 4G Long-Term Evolution trial in the southern region, which is the first multichannel initiative of its kind and provides services to roughly 180 people.