While Project Gigabit brings high-speed broadband to thousands in North Yorkshire, concerns remain about connectivity for the most remote rural communities.
The UK government's initiative, aimed at bridging the digital divide, has seen significant investment in the region, but questions linger over its reach into the smallest and most isolated villages.
NYnet's CEO is Alastair Taylor:
Building Digital UK (BDUK) has awarded a £73.5 million contract to Quickline, a broadband provider, to connect approximately 36,300 hard-to-reach premises across North Yorkshire with gigabit-capable broadband. The project is part of a wider strategy to expand gigabit infrastructure throughout the UK. However, experts warn that the focus remains on "built-up areas," leaving behind those living several miles outside villages.
Several factors contribute to the challenge of connecting these remote locations:
- Cost and logistical difficulties in laying fibre optic cables to individual properties.
- Existing commercial broadband providers already serving some areas.
- The government's current focus on "clusters" of premises, leaving smaller, scattered homesteads underserved.
Alastair has outlined other options for outlying areas that are most cost-effective:
While Project Gigabit significantly improves connectivity for many, the government acknowledges the need for further policy solutions to address the needs of "very hard to reach" premises. The debate continues on how to best utilize taxpayer funds to ensure equitable access to high-speed broadband for all residents of North Yorkshire.
Beyond Project Gigabit, other initiatives aim to improve connectivity in North Yorkshire:
- The Superfast North Yorkshire program, completed in 2020, achieved 97% superfast coverage through a combination of fiber optic and wireless technologies.
- The Shared Rural Network (SRN), a collaboration between the government and mobile network operators, seeks to enhance 4G coverage, particularly in areas known as "partial not spots." By 2025/2026, the SRN aims to provide 92% 4G coverage from at least one mobile network operator in North Yorkshire.
- Free Wi-Fi hotspots are available in 21 market towns across the region, though implementation faces delays in areas with listed buildings.
Despite the progress made, the final push to 100% connectivity, particularly for those in the most isolated locations, remains a complex and evolving challenge.
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