Broadband has moved on significantly over recent years with just under 98% of premises in our region able to receive speeds greater than 24mbps. However while that is a significant achievement fibre to the premises is now being delivered on a significant scale, bringing speeds of up to 900mbp.
I was delighted to see Project Gigabit has been awarded to both Norfolk and Suffolk allowing many more premises to move over from using old copper wires to fibre to the premises and the much faster speeds. I was able to discuss this with Rt Hon Sir John Whittingdale, Minister of State for Data and Digital Infrastructure on a recent visit to Suffolk.
We still have some premises getting speeds of under 10mbps and it is vital we gain further funding to reach those still outside the current delivery areas. The pandemic has so clearly demonstrated the importance of digital connectivity.
In Suffolk we have via our adult care team delivered digital care technology Cassius which is changing the lives of over 2300 residents, allowing people to remain independent for longer. The technology includes movement sensors, smart watches, wearables and falls prevention devices. I wrote an article recently on Conservative Home detailing the project.
With greater advances in digital care at home wider connectivity through broadband is essential.
Broadband is now a basic utility required by all whether for work, education, care or personal use.