The document discusses the progress that has been made on a broadband update project since February 2011. Key points include: - A dedicated project team was formed and a tender process was started to seek a private sector partner to develop next generation broadband infrastructure. - Surveys of residential and business premises were conducted across two counties to assess needs and opportunities. - The project aims to provide access to broadband speeds of at least 2Mbps across rural areas and next generation infrastructure to eligible areas by working with internet service providers. - Phase 1 will cover over 1,000 square miles and nearly 125,000 people, with Phase 2 expanding to over 3,400 square miles and 354,000 people.

1. Broadband Update – what’s happened since February 2011? Graham Powell 2 nd December 2011

5. Area Size Km2 Population Residential Premises Registered Business Population Business Premises Phase 1 1,298 124,900 57,592 6,125 4,038 Phase 2 3,484 354,000 158,926 18,662 13,205 Total 4,782 478,900 216,518 24,787 17,243