Residents in seven Gloucestershire communities could be missing out on improved broadband services, Openreach has warned. Full fibre broadband has recently been rolled out to properties in Staunton & Corse, Hethelpit Cross, The Heath, Lowbands, Gadfield Elm, and Lime Street, funded through the UK Government’s Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme as part of Project Gigabit.
However, Openreach stresses that these upgrades are not automatic. Residents must check their eligibility and order the full fibre upgrade via the Openreach website to benefit from faster speeds and greater reliability.
Project Gigabit is a government initiative aimed at bringing gigabit-capable broadband to hard-to-reach homes and businesses not covered by commercial broadband providers. This ensures that communities which might otherwise be left behind can access next-generation digital infrastructure.
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The recent upgrades have provided residents and local businesses with access to significantly faster and more stable broadband connections, with plans to extend coverage to more properties soon.
Full fibre technology delivers gigabit speeds and greater reliability, allowing multiple devices to connect seamlessly. This advancement not only improves everyday online activities but also helps local businesses compete in the digital marketplace for years to come.
Martin Williams, Openreach’s Partnership Director for the South West and Wales, said: “Fast and reliable full fibre broadband gives households and businesses a significant boost. As the UK’s leading fibre infrastructure provider, Openreach is at the forefront of digital transformation, connecting communities and future-proofing the network.”
Williams added, “Our extensive network – the largest in the UK – empowers residents to shop around and find deals that best meet their needs. But it’s crucial to remember that full fibre upgrades are not automatic; you need to order the service to benefit from this cutting-edge technology.”
In addition to expanding connectivity, Openreach emphasizes its commitment to sustainability through its ‘Let’s Reach Zero’ strategy. This eco-friendly approach aims to reduce carbon emissions, minimize material waste, and protect natural habitats across all operations.
Currently, Openreach’s full fibre network serves over 20 million properties across the UK, with ambitions to reach 25 million by the end of 2026 and potentially 30 million by the end of the decade, depending on continued investment.