The digital connectivity of 1,000 properties across Wales has
been transformed thanks to the Welsh Government's relaunched
Access Broadband Cymru (ABC) grant scheme.
The ABC programme provides grant funding to support the
installation of a fast, reliable broadband to homes and business
properties in Wales that are unable to achieve a connection via
any other means.
Funding of up to £800 is available per property, with grants for
both equipment costs and installation costs.
The scheme was relaunched last year after a pause to review its
operations. Since then, more grants are being processed more
quickly. The cost of the average claim has also reduced following
the changes introduced, meaning more people can benefit.
David Hedges and his partner suffered with slow broadband for
years at his eco-home in rural Carmarthenshire. As a home-based
worker this regularly affected his virtual meetings and webinars.
It also meant the streaming service to their TV was unreliable.
He called the impact of the ABC scheme on their lives
‘priceless'.
David said:
“Our download speeds now regularly reach between 150 and 450
Mbps. Before we were lucky to get 30 Mbps via a 4G connection, as
fibre broadband wasn't available to us.
“So much of our lives revolve around internet access that having
a fast, reliable service has removed so many hassles in terms of
ordering goods and services, making appointments, being able to
have uninterrupted phone calls and all the benefits I assume
people in towns and cities never have to question.
“Our install was DIY and a little complicated as our eco-house is
designed to be airtight. We also had to install a satellite dish
at height, to be above surrounding trees, but for most other
users it will simply be a question of fixing the satellite dish
to their property and running a cable directly through a wall.”
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, , said:
“Fast, reliable broadband connectivity is essential for modern
life.
“The ABC scheme was designed to ensure no one in Wales is left
behind in our digital society – including those in the very
hardest to reach premises.
"Reaching the 1,000 properties milestone shows the scheme is
delivering for people across Wales, helping improve their lives
by providing the internet speeds they need."
To find out more about the Welsh Government's Access Broadband
Cymru scheme and solutions available to you for getting faster
broadband visit Broadband in Wales |
GOV.WALES.
