Superfast Dorset bringing fibre broadband to another 9,000 properties

Fibre optic broadband is to be rolled out to thousands more Dorset properties as part of a multi-million pound partnership between the government, BT and local councils.

Engineering work has already begun on the third phase of the Superfast Dorset programme, which is expected to make the technology available to 9,000 homes and businesses by spring 2015.

The latest stage of the scheme will involve upgrades to the following exchanges:

• Blandford 
• Bourton
• Child Okeford
• Fontmell Magna
• Gillingham
• Hazelbury Bryan
• Marnhull
• Milton Abbas
• Shaftesbury
• Sturminster Newton

Superfast Dorset is building on progress already made by the private sector, which has seen fibre broadband installed in the majority of Dorset towns, as well as most parts of Blandford, Gillingham and Shaftesbury.

Deborah Croney, Leader of North Dorset District Council, said: "People in rural areas, including much of North Dorset, currently struggle with frustratingly slow speeds. 

"This technology will make a huge difference to families and businesses, especially in our isolated communities."