RW 2010: Broadband grant scheme launched
Rural communities in Wales with no access to broadband can now tap into a funding initiative to hook up to the system.
At the Royal Welsh Show today (Tuesday, 20 July), Wales’ deputy first minister, Ieuan Wyn Jones, officially launched a Welsh Assembly Government scheme that will enable individuals and groups to approach internet service providers directly.
A grant of up to £1000 will be available to each applicant to offset the set-up and installation costs of a broadband connection.
The announcement comes just days after the Westminster government provoked anger by announcing it intended extending the target for providing universal UK broadband coverage by three years.
Ieuan Wyn Jones described access to broadband as an important part of the competitive infrastructure of every 21st century community. “I am pleased that the work to bring the scheme into full operation has been resolved so rapidly – and that this scheme is now up and running,” he said.
Anyone who meets the scheme’s criteria can access application forms through the Assembly Government’s website.