Project Gigabit
Project Gigabit will be crucial to achieving the government’s target of gigabit-capable broadband reaching 99% of UK premises by 2032. It targets homes and businesses that are not included in broadband suppliers’ plans, reaching parts of the UK that might otherwise miss out on getting the digital connectivity they need. The connections delivered by Project Gigabit will benefit rural and remote communities, as well as tackling pockets of poor connectivity in urban areas.
Having the fastest, most reliable broadband means households no longer having to battle over bandwidth, and gives people the freedom to live and work more flexibly. Project Gigabit is driving productivity across British businesses, as well as in our schools, hospitals and other public services so they can deliver better outcomes for taxpayers.
As demand for faster internet speeds continues to grow, Project Gigabit will ensure the UK network is fit for the future. Project Gigabit is upgrading the nation with the fastest, most reliable broadband infrastructure on the market, which will meet people’s needs not just today but for decades to come. Read more here.
Project Gigabit in Oxfordshire
In November 2023, following a supplier consultation and procurement process, BDUK awarded broadband supplier Gigaclear two Project Gigabit contracts to provide around 10,000 premises in Oxfordshire with access to gigabit-capable broadband. The value of both contracts combined is in the region of £26 million.
Oxfordshire County Council and the Digital Infrastructure Programme team in particular, welcome this announcement of significant additional funding for Oxfordshire to increase access to full fibre broadband. However, the announcement acknowledges that more collaborative work is needed with BDUK, which the team will undertake, and we will keep Oxfordshire residents up to date with developments.
What does ‘gigabit-capable’ mean?
Gigabit-capable networks can deliver speeds of at least 1,000 megabits per second, making it possible to download a one-hour HD TV show in eight seconds. The infrastructure is far more reliable, resilient and easier to maintain compared with traditional, copper-based networks – which means fewer internet outages disrupting lives and businesses, and no more battling for bandwidth with the neighbours.
Widening access to gigabit is essential to a modern, digital Britain. It will enable people and businesses to seize the benefits of the internet regardless of where they live – from the basics like online shopping and banking to emerging tech like virtual reality.
As the demand for connectivity continues to increase in the decades ahead, the rollout will also ensure people across the country can access the services they need now and in the future.
Related links
Project Gigabit network build contracts – Oxfordshire – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Gigaclear’s web page for Project Gigabit in Oxfordshire
Think Broadband’s web page on UK Broadband Coverage & Speed Test Result Maps
For additional details of the Public Review and more information, visit this link.