Denbighshire County Council has expressed its "disappointment and frustration" at information released by the Welsh Government about which properties will not get access to fibre broadband through the Superfast Cymru programme.
Although a second scheme is due to get underway next year there are no guarantees that properties in Denbighshire currently unable to access superfast broadband will get this opportunity in the next phase.
The current information shows that there are 2,400 properties not able to access superfast broadband in Denbighshire.
Councillor Richard Mainon, Cabinet Lead Member with responsibility for Digital, said: “This is very disappointing as the council has been pressing both the Welsh Government and BT for many months for answers as to when all communities in the county can benefit from it.
“The council is aware of the economic benefits that high quality broadband can bring to communities and that superfast speeds are or will become essential for many of our businesses and residents.
“Until now there has been uncertainty on which properties would not benefit from the publicly subsidised Superfast Cymru programme and the council has shared the frustrations and concerns of our businesses and residents.
“The council has identified those properties in the county that cannot access superfast broadband. While this is far from unique across Wales, the council is taking the opportunity to highlight the issue and support communities in moving forward."
Funding is available from Welsh Government for individuals and groups of property owners to upgrade their broadband themselves and the council is providing information on these opportunities on its website –
The council believes the Welsh Government’s ‘Access Broadband Cymru’ (or ABC) scheme may be the most appropriate option for most residents. It offers grants of up to £800 per household on a first come, first served basis.
The council says it is willing to coordinate meetings with the most affected communities who would be interested in working together to improve their broadband, but would need local ‘champions’ who would be willing and able to co-ordinate the work required to implement a community solution.
* If you are interested, or know of anyone who would like to work with the Council please contact the Council, on 01824 706000 or e-mail: customer.services@denbighshire.gov.uk
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