Logging-on to a brighter future

THE installation of superfast broadband is a key factor for a bright future for Oldham, say council chiefs.

The Government has named 10 major UK cities, including Manchester, as eligible to fight it out for a share of £100 million to boost broadband speeds.

Oldham is heavily involved in the Manchester bid, which would bring big benefits to the borough.

Councillor Dave Hibbert said: “This latest announcement from the Government will enable the expansion of superfast broadband to happen more quickly and extend to a wider span of premises across the successful cities.

“The installation will be a key factor in the creation of ‘Next Generation Oldham’. The combination of Metrolink, the university, our outstanding colleges, the science centre and the green technology centre will transform our borough into a place fit for the 21st century.

“Oldham Council has already committed to spend capital funds to ensure the borough benefits from the economic development potential of superfast broadband. This financial commitment will add weight to Greater Manchester’s bid for funding.

A proposal will be developed by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority for submission by February.

Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt said the UK’s four capitals — London, Belfast, Cardiff and Edinburgh — will all benefit from the funding. Manchester, Sheffield, Liverpool, Bradford, Leeds, Glasgow, Newcastle, Nottingham, Birmingham and Bristol will now vie for the remaining six places on the scheme.

The funding will be used to create “super-connected” cities with 80–100Mbps broadband access and bidders will have to show how they will use that to drive growth and attract new businesses.