UK Gigabit Programme: Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes Public Review

Following an Open Market Review launched on 20 October 2021 to 22 November 2021, Building Digital UK (BDUK) is seeking views from the public and other stakeholders with regard to existing or planned gigabit-capable broadband infrastructure in the area of Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes.

Background

The government’s ambition is to deliver nationwide gigabit-capable broadband as soon as possible. The market is making great progress in delivering this ambition but there is a need for government intervention in the parts of the country that are not commercially viable. This is why the Budget in 2020 committed £5 billion for the hardest to reach parts of the country, ensuring that all areas of the UK can benefit equally.

The £5 billion will be spent through a package of co-ordinated and mutually supportive interventions, collectively known as the Project Gigabit Programme. As part of this, Building Digital UK is developing a procurement approach for funding contracts to suppliers delivering gigabit-capable wholesale infrastructure.

Gigabit-capable broadband is important for all communities providing faster, more reliable connectivity for homes and businesses everywhere.

Public Review description

BDUK request information and supporting evidence from suppliers in relation to the presence of gigabit-capable broadband infrastructure within the project area. We wish to hear from all relevant stakeholders - including the public, businesses, internet service providers and broadband infrastructure operators - particularly in relation to the proposed mapped eligible areas.