A number of constituents have got in touch with me over the last few months regarding concerns about broadband – specifically access to superfast broadband.
Under the Government roll-out to enable superfast broadband in every home, Northfield is said to have over 90% coverage.
For most of us that’s great, it means we have the opportunity to get faster internet speeds which allow us to stream TV, play games or do online shopping. Faster internet is also a real benefit to self-employed people working from home – who need reliable and fast access to online networks.
Unfortunately Northfield has fallen victim to ‘urban not-spots’ – places of no access to superfast broadband – which mean a minority of people are being left behind. Since last Autumn I have been raising concerns about this ‘postcode lottery’ with broadband providers and Ofcom. I’ve discovered the negative consequences it can have on house prices and attracting growth.
To me it’s obvious that the Government must show clear leadership on superfast broadband, and develop a solid plan to address urban not–spots. But my recent work on the Infrastructure Bill underlined the Government’s completely chaotic approach to building infrastructure fit for the 21st Century. It’s not good enough. We must start thinking about access to good broadband as a critical utility like water or electricity.
For now though, I want to hear if you or anyone in the area, has problems with accessing superfast broadband. Please get in touch.
You can check if you have access to superfast broadband by using the postcode checker here: https://www.superfast-openreach.co.uk/where-and-when/
For further information please get in touch by emailing richard.burden.mp@parliament.uk
I look forward to hearing from you!
