Superfast broadband move is gaining pace
Superfast broadband internet services are a step closer to arriving in Shropshire after £530 million Government plans were this week given a green light by the European Union.
The approval means work on the multi-million pound rural broadband scheme can start in earnest, with the search for a contractor due to begin next week. The contract is expected to be awarded by March.
The job is expected to be completed by the end of 2015.
Shrewsbury MP Daniel Kawczynski welcomed the announcement, which was made by the EU on Tuesday.
He said: "We have been pushing for it very hard. It will have a huge beneficial impact for rural people in Shropshire."
The county is currently among the 26 worst areas for broadband in the country and an £8.2 million grant was provided by the Government last year to improve the situation.
Under the Connecting Shropshire project, it is hoped the entire county can be provided with a fast and reliable broadband service, with 'as much of the county as possible' receiving superfast broadband.
The Shropshire scheme is one of dozens around the country to receive money.
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Maria Miller said she was thrilled the investment programme was moving forward.
"Finally getting the green light from Brussels will mean a huge boost for the British economy. Superfast broadband is essential to creating growth, jobs and prosperity and the delay has caused frustration within Government," she said.