Residents in seven Gloucestershire communities could be missing out on improved broadband services, warns Openreach.
Full Fibre broadband has been delivered to properties in Staunton & Corse, Hethelpit Cross, The Heath, Lowbands, Gadfield Elm, and Lime Street through the UK Government’s Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme, a key part of Project Gigabit.
However, these upgrades are not automatic. Homeowners and businesses can check their eligibility and order an upgrade via the Openreach website to enjoy full fibre benefits.
Project Gigabit is a government-backed initiative focused on bringing fast, reliable gigabit-capable broadband to hard-to-reach communities that are not covered by commercial supplier plans. The programme aims to ensure these areas are not left behind in the digital era.
These recent upgrades now provide faster, more dependable internet to residents and businesses, with additional properties set for connection soon.
Full Fibre technology delivers a superior broadband experience, enabling multiple devices to connect simultaneously at gigabit-capable speeds. This technology is vital for local businesses to trade online effectively and remain competitive well into the future.
Martin Williams, Openreach’s Partnership Director for the South West and Wales, emphasized: “Fast and reliable full fibre broadband gives households and businesses a significant boost.”
“As the UK’s leading fibre infrastructure provider, Openreach is driving digital transformation across communities nationwide, future-proofing the network for decades ahead.”
“Our extensive network, the largest in the UK, allows residents to find the best broadband deals suited to their needs.”
“But it’s crucial to remember that upgrades don’t happen automatically — customers must actively request the service to benefit.”
Openreach is also committed to sustainable network development through its ‘Let’s Reach Zero’ strategy, aiming to reduce carbon emissions, minimize material use and waste, and protect nature in all operational areas.
With its full fibre network now reaching over 20 million properties, Openreach plans to expand coverage to 25 million homes and businesses by the end of 2026, with ambitions to reach up to 30 million by 2030, given the right investment conditions.