Digital Britain: A next generation of digital opportunity for rural communities?
- Posted on:
- Wednesday, 17th June 2009 at 9:49am
We recognise how important broadband is for people living and working in rural communities and are keen to ensure rural areas are not excluded from the economic, social and cultural opportunities provided by broadband connectivity.
We look forward to the publication of the Digital Britain report bringing some clarity to supporting investment in future broadband delivery to urban and rural areas alike. In particular, mechanisms for funding Next Generation Access need to ensure that benefits apply equally to all communities.
We're pleased the report makes direct reference to demand for broadband continuing to increase in rural areas at a faster rate than in urban areas, and that rural economic development is dependent on broadband availability. Take up for broadband services in the countryside as a proportion of the population exceeded that in urban areas in 2007/8, suggesting a strong case for investment in digital technology.
As part of our digital inclusion work, we're now looking forward to playing a full role in following up the recommendations in Lord Carter’s report to ensure the best possible outcomes for rural communities.
On Tuesday 23 June we're launching ‘Mind the Gap: Digital England – a rural perspective’ setting out issues and opportunities for people living and working in rural communities to benefit from the advantages of new technologies both now and in the future.
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