BT begins Superfast Cymru fibre broadband rollout

BT has begun work on the Welsh government's Superfast Cymru fibre optic broadband project.

Speaking to Assembly Members, Welsh Business Minister Edwina Hart said BT had carried out detailed preparatory work and has now officially kicked off the rollout.

Fibre broadband is set to be deployed in 14 unitary authorities - laenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Isle of Anglesey, Merthyr Tydfil, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Swansea and the Vale of Glamorgan - during 2013-14.

In 2014-15, the project is then due to move on to all remaining unitary authorities.

The rollout will bring speeds of up to 80Mbps within reach of more homes and businesses. When combined with private sector work, the scheme will bring world-class broadband within reach of 96 per cent of Welsh properties.

Mrs Hart said the programme will transform the country's "broadband landscape".

"It will ensure we are at the forefront of the global digital economy and help to champion Wales as a great place to live, work, invest and visit," she added.