Broadband returns to Leominster

Leominster in Herefordshire is once again hooked up to broadband after being cut off before Christmas when local operator Independent Networks went titsup.

Independent Networks had been funded by regional development agency Advantage West Midlands to provide unbundled DSL by installing its own kit in cabinets next to the local telephone exchange.

This approach was taken after BT said there was insufficient demand in Leominster for the monster telco to make the necessary investment.

Now though, after two months without broadband, Leominster is back online again after drumming up enough support to convince BT to upgrade the exchange.

Local M Bill Wiggin, welcomed the move. He said: "I am pleased that BT have acted so swiftly and would like to thank them for their hard work in getting it up-and-running again.

“I have no doubt that my constituents will be thrilled at the prospect of having broadband fully and permanently set up. I have maintained throughout my campaign to secure broadband in Leominster that access to such a service is vital for rural businesses.”

According to those in the know, there was genuine excitement last autumn when local people found out that Leominster had been earmarked for the broadband pilot.

But their joy turned to disappointment when the firm providing the service went into receivership just before Christmas - and they lost the link. Now they've got it back again they don't want to lose it again.

One insider told us: "It's one thing not to have broadband at all, but to have it and then lose it is just too much to bear." ®

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