Local authorities keen to be involved in the next round of super-fast broadband trials have been told to get their bids together by April 2011.

Communications minister Ed Vaizey told the House of Commons the government is expecting to invite applications to take part in these tests from this date, with the successful projects set to be unveiled the following month.

He also revealed Broadband Delivery UK will give guidance to councils looking to put themselves forward for inclusion in the initiative, which will see £50 million of funding given away to support the rollout of improved internet connections.

Businesses and residents in West Lothian are already beginning to benefit from the initiative, Mr Vaizey added, with BT upgrading its Livingston Station exchange and Virgin Media's fibre optic broadband services also available in the area.

Cumbria, Herefordshire, Scotland's Highlands and Islands and North Yorkshire were the areas chosen for inclusion in the first round of super-fast broadband trials.

Add a comment

Comment

Your name

Your e-mail address

Comments (0)