Broadband campaign hits 4,000 pledges of support

The clock is ticking to register your support for better broadband in Shropshire – and the more people that sign up, the more investment the county is likely to get from the private sector.

The Connecting Shropshire campaign is working hard to improve broadband provision, with the aim that every property will have access to a 2Mbps level of broadband by the end of 2015, and as many as possible having access to superfast broadband.

The campaign is currently at a critical stage, when Shropshire needs to demonstrate to the private sector that we want faster broadband.  A survey is running to register the demand, and the more people that sign up, the more external funding Shropshire is likely to get.

But the survey closes at the end of May 2012, so it’s really important that people do their bit now before it’s too late.

Martin Taylor-Smith, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for ICT, said:

“Whatever happens, this project will result in better broadband for Shropshire, but more public support will mean a greater likelihood of securing more external funding to get the best solution possible.  People are starting to get the message, and we have actually had more responses this week than any other week so far.

“We have now hit the 4,000 mark, but we would love to get a lot more than that, so I would urge as many people as possible to get on the Connecting Shropshire website and do the survey.  If you don’t have access to the Internet, you can use the computers at your local Broadplace or library, or call the council on 0345 678 9000 and give your details over the phone.”

Volunteers are getting out and about to spread the word, and will be at Ludlow Market this Saturday (19 May 2012) to encourage people to fill in the survey.  The campaign will also have a stand at Shropshire County Show on 26 May 2012.

More details about the campaign can be found on the Connecting Shropshire website.