Broadband not fast enough
The CLA has questioned the speed at which the UK is meeting its broadband target


Progress in ensuring that the UK meets its broadband target is ‘slow, cumbersome and excessively mired in red tape,' according to a paper released by the CLA to mark its 10 years of campaigning for an end to the ‘digital divide' that handicaps rural areas. In December 2010, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport announced that it was aiming to have the best superfast broadband network in Europe by 2015.
The CLA believes we're some way off meeting that target: currently, 15%-20% of those who live in rural areas are unable to receive anywhere near the Government's stated benchmark of 2MB per second, a speed vital if a small or medium-sized business is to operate from a rural base.
* Subscribe to Country Life and save £1 per issue
The CLA also has depressing news for the 10% of people who live too remotely to access the superfast broadband, as it sees no evidence of an alternative being developed. bIt's now calling on the Government to put in place a Universal Service Obligation by 2015, for local authorities to ensure that providers are paid on a performance-related basis and to encourage a strategic alliance between like-minded trade associations to deliver broadband to all.
* Follow Country Life Magazine on Twitter
Exquisite houses, the beauty of Nature, and how to get the most from your life, straight to your inbox.
-
A Hampshire Manor for sale that dates back to the days of Alfred the Great, with the most beautiful staircase we've seen in years
The ten bedroom property features an indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, spa complex and stables, and it was restored by the same architect who worked on Downing Street.
-
A bridge just far enough: Country Life Quiz of the Day, July 4, 2025
Lions, castles and even a couple of US-themed questions for the 4th of July in Friday's Quiz of the Day.