The next generation of superfast broadband was given approval by Ofcom on Tuesday … the new £1.5 billion fibre-optic network will be 25 times faster than today’s speeds. Songs will take just two seconds to download and DVD-quality films less than two minutes in the 100 megabit per second system.
“There are no regulatory barriers in the way of investment in super-fast broadband, we want to promote investment but also ensure that there is fair and effective competition for the future.” stated Ofcom Chief Executive Ed Richards.
So, here at Digital Birmigham we are making the assumption that BT will no longer be subject to Local Loop Unbundling (LLU) as they were under the ADSL roll out, which will no doubt be a huge impetus for its implementation.
BT is investing £1.5bn in a fibre optic network that will deliver download speeds of 100mbps to UK broadband users. The move follows increasing competition, particularly from Virgin Media, which plans to introduce a 50mbps broadband service in September.
BT aims to put 10 million homes on the fibre network by 2012. To control costs, the network will be built in two parts. One million new-build homes will receive the fibre network directly. For the remaining nine million residents BT plans to replace the copper cabling that connects kerbside cabinets in streets to the local BT exchange with fibre optic cabling.
There is one important caveat. BT will build the network only where there is demonstrable demand from broadband users.
What impact will this have on the Digital Inclusion Agenda, as those who are currently excluded won’t be able to effectively demonstrate their demand and so will be subject to further exclusion?
And, will Solihull users benefit from speeds of 50 meg or more whilst leaving inner city areas of Birmingham such as Balsall Heath trailing behind in the slow lane?
Despite perhaps being the more hesitant in using technology, dad Simon showed that when it comes to online shopping he is willing to take the lead. Supported by Digital Birmingham’s Mike Farmer, who is helping the 
