'Get behind broadband' urges MP (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

'Get behind broadband' urges MP

COTSWOLD MP Geoffrey Clifton-Brown is urging more constituents to support the internet revolution and stake their claim for broadband.

The high speed internet connection is only available in certain parts of the district but, if enough people show an interest, BT will consider making it available in other areas.

Coln St Aldwyns was the most recent exchange to make the switch, following Cirencester, Mickleton, Nailsworth, Wotton-Under-Edge and Tetbury.

Mr Clifton-Brown said: "I am delighted that homes and businesses using the Coln St Aldwyns exchange will now be able to apply to BT for their broadband connection.

Now we must move forward to ensure that more of the Cotswolds is broadband enabled.

"Next on the list are Fairford, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold and Moreton-in-Marsh.

"I particularly urge anyone in those communities who has any interest now or in the future in going for broadband to register with BT so triggers can be met."

The amount of interest needed to trigger broadband in Fairford is 450 enquiries - some 288 registrations have been made so far.

Bourton needs 500 enquiries (311 so far); Stow also needs 500 (320 to date) and Moreton is just short of its required 500 mark with 466 registrations at the time of going to press.

Mr Clifton-Brown added: "Broadband technology is particularly important in the rural areas where there are often limited facilities and this move means more people and businesses will be able to receive information in a far more technologically efficient manner."