Local MP Robert Largan spoke in Parliament to make the case directly to the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson MP, for redoubling efforts to extend broadband and mobile coverage to hard-to-reach areas like in the High Peak.
The High Peak MP highlighted the importance of the broadband rollout and suggested how the Government can boost the recruitment of engineers:
“Thanks to our unique geography, High Peak has some of the worst broadband and mobile coverage gaps anywhere in the country. We are making good progress, but may I urge the Prime Minister to redouble efforts in the roll-out of ultrafast broadband, especially to hard-to-reach rural areas such as High Peak? May I suggest that the Government build on the success of the kickstart scheme, with more focused support for key infrastructure industries, so that we can recruit a new generation of highly skilled broadband engineers to turbocharge the roll-out?”
The Prime Minister agreed and responded:
“My hon. Friend is absolutely right, which is why we are working with industry to accelerate our rural network. Coverage across the UK has massively increased, and will be increasing thanks to the steps we are taking.”
Locally, Robert Largan MP has invited residents to take part in his High Peak Broadband & Mobile Coverage survey.
The High Peak MP will be presenting the final results of the survey to Ministers, Openreach, and other broadband and mobile network providers, to identify the gaps in coverage and help build the case for more investment in the High Peak.
High Peak residents can take part in the survey here: https://www.robertlargan.co.uk/broadbandsurvey
Robert Largan MP commented:
“Access to fast broadband is vital to strong economies and societies. It opens up so many opportunities for people and keeps us connected with one another. I am determined to help as many people as possible in High Peak to get better broadband.
“I have been engaging locally with Openreach and other providers to support the broadband rollout, but I will keep the pressure on in Westminster to help ensure hard-to-reach areas in High Peak also get better broadband.”
