COMPLAINTS from residents over slow Broadband speed at George Ward Gardens in Melksham has resulted in the promise of a full fibre broadband speed upgrade in time for Christmas.
Parliamentary candidate, Michelle Donelan, says that she has been working on a plan with developer Persimmon and network provider Openreach.
As reported in Melksham News (issue 746 dated 24th October) residents on the 64-property housing development were unhappy that the developer had failed to ensure that ‘fast’ fibre broadband was installed in the new estate, leaving them with a ‘slow and sluggish’ service.
Michelle Donelan’s office reports, “On hearing about this, Michelle brought together Persimmon and Openreach to work on a newer, faster plan that would ensure not only that all residents of George Ward Gardens get the upgrade, but that it is upgraded immediately.
“Michelle is delighted to announce that after a lot of hard work, Openreach have now agreed to install a full fibre network in the development next month – representing the largest infrastructure upgrade for local residents in years.
“Michelle is very passionate about ensuring that we eliminate the gap between internet speeds in rural and metropolitan areas and this project shows that it is a very reachable goal.”
The Parliamentary candidate said, “I am a firm believer that in this day and age, where you live should not dictate how connected you are to the rest of the world. Fast broadband is a modern essential in both work and home life, so it is high time that towns like Melksham had comprehensive coverage when it comes to having superfast broadband.
“Residents of George Ward Gardens asked me to take action on this and I am delighted to say that immediate action has led to an immediate upgrade.
“Fast internet can no longer be thought of as a luxury since it is becoming increasingly important for keeping in touch with loved ones, helping young people in education and helping the worst-off in society get their feet back on the ground. So we cannot underestimate the importance of this upgrade to Melksham residents, but this success is one that I am going to replicate across Melksham and across the Chippenham constituency.
“My wider plan is to make the Chippenham constituency a nationwide example of how superfast rural broadband can boost jobs, bring families together and provide new learning opportunities for young people and adults.
“I have been conducting one of the largest local surveys in recent times to ensure that the whole of the Chippenham constituency gets an upgrade to superfast broadband within five years and I am delighted to kickstart this right here in Melksham.”
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