Superfast broadband reaches 95% of UK premises but rural areas still left behind

"Significant areas" are still "devoid" of a fast connection, the CLA has said
"Significant areas" are still "devoid" of a fast connection, the CLA has said

The government has today announced the delivery of superfast broadband to 95 percent of UK premises, but "significant areas" are still let without a decent connection.

According to thinkbroadband.com, speeds of 24mbps or faster are available to around 27.5 million out of 28.9 million premises in the UK.

In England, 95.5% of properties can get those speeds, 94.2% in Wales, 93.4% in Scotland and 86.7% in Northern Ireland.

The rural organisation the CLA said achieving 95% is an "important milestone", but still leaves "significant areas devoid" of a fast connection.

CLA President Tim Breitmeyer said some rural businesses are still left without a good connection.

Mr Breitmeyer said: “Getting connections to rural homes and businesses is complex and expensive but it is essential and a crucial part of establishing fairness and balance in the economy.

“That is why the universal service obligation of 10Mbps that we fought so hard for, is important not only to rural areas but to the whole country.

“It is not just imperative to get rural homes and businesses connected in the first place but also to ensure the service they receive keeps pace with demand and technological change. The universal service obligation must be enacted in law without delay.

Mr Breitmeyer added: “Once it is in force, we will press for it to be constantly updated to end the digital divide that has held back our economy for too long.”

The announcement follows news that 7 out of 10 slowest areas in the UK for broadband is in Wales, according to a report which urges the Welsh Government to act.

Indeed, an analysis of over 63m broadband speed tests worldwide has revealed that the UK sits in 31st place, with an average speed of 16.51Mbps.

The lack of broadband and connectivity in British rural areas is the main reason why young people leave and never come back.