Written question WQ98424
- Asked by
- Russell GeorgeIndependent
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 12 days
Question
How is the Welsh Government working with Building Digital UK to reach the hard-to-reach areas to deliver improved broadband in Powys?
Answer
Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning
Responsibility for improving broadband connectivity in Wales where the market does not reach, rests with the UK Government. The UK government is committed to achieving nationwide gigabit coverage and expects 99% of premises to have access to a gigabit-capable connection by 2032 and is delivering in Wales through its Project Gigabit investment programme.
Wales, including Powys, has some of the most challenging areas to deploy digital infrastructure in the UK. It is important that Project Gigabit accounts for the unique circumstances presented by our topography and population density, particularly in our rural areas. We are therefore continuing to engage with the UK Government to ensure ongoing investment that meets the needs of Wales.
We have worked with the UK Government to identify those premises that do not have access to fast and reliable broadband. Any decision about which premises will be included in the project rests with the UK Government.
Officials regularly meet with Building Digital UK to discuss the progress of broadband improvements in all areas of Wales including Powys.