St Helens Council hails future fibre broadband rollout

St Helens Council has welcomed the launch of fibre optic broadband by BT as part of a wider rollout across Merseyside.

During 2013, several local communities - including Arrowebrook, Gateacre, Hoylake and Newton-Le-Willows - are set to benefit from the introduction of super-fast broadband.

The project will see fibre broadband extended to more than 37,000 additional homes and businesses throughout the area, taking the total number of Merseyside properties with access to the technology to over 410,000.

Barrie Grunewald, deputy leader and cabinet member for urban regeneration, housing and culture at St Helens Council, said BT's announcement will see world-class broadband infrastructure deployed across the region.

"Everyone recognises the importance of super-fast broadband, not just for its contribution to the local economy and potential to create new businesses and jobs, but every aspect of modern life," he commented.

The development is BT's latest investment in Merseyside's communications network, coming shortly after the company pledged to deliver fibre broadband to almost 35,500 premises.