Theresa May has met senior officials at BT to discuss the progression of superfast broadband in the Maidenhead constituency and throughout Berkshire. Theresa pressed BT for an update on the deployment of superfast broadband and the first phase of the Superfast Berkshire project, following concerns from local people.
Superfast Berkshire was created in 2011 by the six unitary councils, which includes the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead and Wokingham Borough Council, to improve broadband coverage in areas considered non-commercially viable for the private sector. For the first phase of the project, Superfast Berkshire signed a contract with BT who continue to work in close partnership with the Berkshire councils to deliver superfast broadband throughout the constituency.
Superfast broadband coverage will extend to over ninety per cent of premises throughout Berkshire by September this year. The next stage of the project aims to extend coverage to ninety five per cent of premises in Berkshire by the end of 2017.
Theresa questioned BT’s engagement with local authorities and how they will continue to support local residents and businesses once the first phase of the project is complete. BT offered to meet with local residents and parish councils, should they like to discuss any issues.
Commenting, Theresa said: “I am delighted with the progression of the first phase of the Superfast Berkshire project, which is nearing completion. This is welcome news for many businesses and local residents who rely on the provision of a good broadband connection. I want to ensure as many areas as possible receive superfast broadband which is why I pressed BT for an update. BT also offered to meet with local residents and parish councils should they like to discuss any issues. I am continuing to press the councils on the next stage of superfast broadband as I’m concerned at the possibility of delay.”
