Welsh communities benefitting from high-speed broadband

Businesses and communities across Wales are benefitting from £12 million on investment in fast and reliable local broadband.

The boost is enhancing public services and opening up new opportunities for economic growth.

Three adult residential care homes in Newport, including Parklands Care Home, now have gigabit-capable full-fibre broadband for the first time. The change has made it easier for residents to keep in touch with family through apps such as Skype and Zoom. At the same time, the homes have also introduced assistive technology to help staff members monitor residents with health conditions efficiently.

Sian Nicholls, Team Manager, said: "Our new broadband upgrade has revolutionised the way we deliver care, enabling advanced telecare services that significantly improve our residents' quality of life. It's also been a huge boost for our staff, enhancing their digital skills and making care delivery more efficient.

Stephen Bath, resident at Parklands Care Home, said: "It’s great to have a secure connection to be able to speak to family and friends. Since the pandemic we’ve come to depend on this provision and it makes a huge difference to how you feel from day-to-day."

High-speed local broadband of up to 100Mbps is now available in the Vale of Glamorgan, at popular sites like Cosmeston Lakes Country Park and the Glamorgan Heritage Coast. The upgrade is intended to enhance visitor experiences and supports local education and employment opportunities.

Furthermore, 17 public sector services in North Wales - including rural libraries and community councils - now have fibre-to-the-premises connections with download speeds of at least 80Mbps.

The Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Rebecca Evans, said: "Fast and reliable broadband is essential for our communities and businesses. The Local Broadband Fund has already made a real difference, delivering tangible improvements to businesses, public services, and communities across Wales. By expanding digital access, we’re helping to create new opportunities for economic growth, employment, and education, as well as enhancing the quality of life for residents."