British Telecom has been chosen as the preferred bidder to provide super fast broadband across Wiltshire next year in a partnership deal with South Gloucestershire Council.
In an announcement embargoed until today (Monday), John Thomson, Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for communities, said: “I am delighted we have been able to work with our partner to select our preferred bidder to deliver this much needed service.”
“Providing faster broadband access across the county will transform the lives of many residents and businesses who struggle to make full use of the internet and online services.”
“This project is vital to our economy. Having high speed internet connectivity will be critical to the success of businesses already based in the county, and will also be a huge attraction to those looking to move in.”
The two councils launched a procurement process in June inviting businesses in the Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK) national procurement framework, to bid for the contract and demonstrate why they would provide the best value for money and highest level of service.
The contract will be awarded once European State Aid consent is granted to the UK by the European Commission. The roll out of the broadband improvements will be completed in 2015.
The programme is being led by Wiltshire Council with an investment of £15.5 million with an additional £4.66 million government funding.
South Gloucestershire Council is investing £2.2 million in the district’s broadband provision, alongside £710,000 of government funding.
Further details will be made known once the contract is signed next month.