Super-fast broadband boost
Steve Clarke, IT consultant.
Homes and businesses in Batley are in line for a super-fast internet boost.
On Tuesday, BT announced it would roll out its high-speed fibre broadband network in the area.
Batley is one of seven places in West Yorkshire which are the latest to benefit, with the upgrade due to begin in 2013.
Steve Clarke, who runs a Birstall-based IT consultancy, last week raised concerns in the News that our area was being left in the broadband slow lane.
He said: “I’m very pleased Batley has finally been included in the upgrade.
“The speed will be much faster, especially for uploading. It will definitely be an advantage to small businesses in the area.”
Mr Clarke appealed for planning authorities not to impede progress and allow the new broadband ‘cabinets’ to be installed as quickly as possible.
He said: “People should also register their interest in receiving the new connection on the BT Openreach website, as this will influence where BT choose to role out the new cabinets first.”
The news has also been welcomed by Leeds City Region Local Enterprise Partnership, who said it would bring a boost for businesses, internet users and the local economy, with the potential to create new enterprises and local jobs.
John Anderson, BT regional director for Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “Digital technology is fundamental to how we live and work – and in an increasingly connected world, high-speed communications will become even more essential in the years ahead.
“Research suggests fibre broadband could give a £143 million boost to a typical town’s economy and create 225 new jobs and 140 new businesses within 15 years.”
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Weather for Batley
Tuesday 21 May 2013
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 8 C to 14 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: North
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 5 C to 14 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: West
