Wednesday, 28 September 2016

The Better Broadband Subsidy Scheme - and how to apply

After publishing an update on this site last night about the poor quality of broadband provision in some areas of our ward, including Hesleden, High Hesleden and Castle Eden, we received a number of requests for information about the broadband voucher scheme which provides access to a subsidised broadband installation to homes and businesses.


Following our contact today with the Digital Durham team we have received the following information, which includes details of how to apply for the voucher scheme:

Morning Cllrs Crute and Pounder

The voucher scheme is still available.

Following the Government’s commitment to provide access to a minimum of 2 megabits per second (Mbps) download speeds, a broadband subsidy scheme has been launched to help eligible residents.

The scheme allows residents to apply for up to £350 towards the hardware and installation costs to get connected to broadband using wireless technologies including satellite, 4G and Mastband. Eligible residents will still be required to pay any additional costs such as the monthly service charge which starts from £10 for a basic broadband service. The costs increase with the more data required.

Further information and the application form is available at: http://www.digitaldurham.org/better-broadband/