BT green lights rural broadband scheme

BT is to push ahead with a scheme that could help bring ADSL to areas currently deemed not commercially viable for investment in broadband.

The initiative, known as ADSL Exchange Activate or Community Broadband, uses "sponsors" such as development agencies and local authorities to help subsidise the cost of rolling out the ADSL service.

It is these "sponsors" who help offset the cost of bringing broadband to areas currently without broadband.

Although BT is talking to potential sponsors now, the full national launch of the scheme is due to begin in July.

The scheme has already been trialled in Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of England. According to BT, it has proved successful. ®

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