I welcome the latest 'Project Gigabit' update, which aims to connect the UK to lightning-fast, reliable broadband. Through the scheme, this Government has now reached the milestone of 50% gigabit-capable coverage in the UK - a dramatic rise from 5.8% in January 2019. This growth is expected to continue, reaching 60% gigabit-capable coverage by the end of December.
Thirsk and Malton is in Lots 8, 23 and 31 for Project Gigabit, which could inject between £128m - £218m to level up for the hardest to reach areas. As constituents will know, I have been campaigning hard for better digital connectivity in the more remote parts of his constituency since 2015, including successfully leading a campaign in Parliament for a Shared Rural Network.
The Project Gigabit rollout is vital in levelling up rural communities such as Thirsk and Malton, ensuring they have the same chances and opportunities as our urban towns and cities - this exactly why I have continuously campaigned on this vital issue. Many communities feel cut off with poorer connectivity, not to mention the impact on the local economy, so these advancements are felt both emotionally as well as financially.
The Government has acknowledged that while significant progress has been made since the Project Gigabit launch, there are still challenges ahead. Some premises are classed as ‘very hard to reach’ and may require different approaches to deliver cost-effective upgrades to their digital infrastructure, this is currently under review. I will continue to press for further progress on this issue, which is so vital to rural economies.
