A recent survey from bOnline has shown that many SMEs are unsure about the availability of altnet in their area, with confusion over the UK’s broadband roll-out strategy.
B4RN has begun the third phase of its north east project, taking the altnet further into Northumberland and County Durham.
Phase One saw B4RN connect the Allen Valleys, from Spartylea through to Whitfield and Catton. The ongoing second phase covers the area of Barrasford, Kirkwhelpington and Woodburn.
The altnet will now undertake several projects approved as part of the government's roll out of gigabit-capable broadband to the hard-to-reach areas in Northumberland and County Durham.
These projects are funded by Government vouchers, grants and community investment. Initial work on planning and surveys will commence soon.
Lynne Rawles, B4RN’s Volunteer Champion for Barrasford, Kirkwhelpington and Woodburn, said: “B4RN, together with our volunteers, are transforming our part of Northumberland into one of the best-connected places to live in the UK. This is a huge legacy to leave for generations to come.”
B4RN currently has over 13,000 customers connected.