Faster broadband is on the way for some of Somerset’s most remote communities.
Openreach has begun work to upgrade properties in and around Watchet, Clevedon, Walton-in-Gordano, Clapton-in-Gordano and Walton Bay to full fibre as part of the UK Government’s Project Gigabit programme.
The project aims to deliver fast and reliable broadband to some of Somerset’s most rural locations.
Liz Lloyd, telecoms minister, said: "Whether it's families streaming together, farmers being able to use new technology, or businesses reaching more customers online, this upgrade creates real opportunities for communities across Somerset.
"By delivering infrastructure that will serve these communities for decades to come, we’re making sure everyone can benefit from the digital world, no matter where they live."
Project Gigabit is a government-funded scheme focused on connecting hard-to-reach homes and businesses that could otherwise be left behind.
So far, the government has signed contracts worth £745m with Openreach, set to benefit more than 297,000 premises across the UK.
An additional £455m is available to continue closing the digital divide.
Martin Williams, Openreach’s partnership director for the South West, said: "We’re bringing faster, more reliable broadband to some of the most rural properties in the region and letting local people know what to expect.
"This is a major infrastructure upgrade, so there will be more engineering teams, equipment and vans around town, and we're working hard to keep disruption to a minimum.
"Wherever possible, we’ll use our existing network of ducts and poles to avoid roadworks, new street furniture and disturbance.
"But there may be places where we need to install new poles, underground ducts and fibre cables because it’s the only way to make sure households get included in the upgrade."
Full fibre technology offers reliable, future-proof connectivity with fewer faults, consistent high speeds and the capacity to meet increasing data demands.
The upgraded network supports everything from seamless streaming and gaming to smooth video calls and online banking, with less buffering during peak times.
Mr Williams said: "Openreach is committed to building the best full fibre network, and doing it sustainably is crucial for our business, the communities we serve, and the environment we all share.
"As part of our ‘Let’s Reach Zero’ strategy, we aim to lower our carbon emissions, use less and waste less material, and protect nature wherever we operate."
Openreach’s full fibre network already covers more than 230,000 properties across Somerset.
