On Wednesday (14th October), local MP Robert Largan spoke the House of Commons about productivity in rural areas, highlighting key challenges facing the High Peak. 

Robert used the debate to speak in favour of delivering crucial infrastructure to help boost rural productivity. He backed proposals for local projects, such as upgrading the Hope Valley railway line, building a railway station to serve Gamesley, and expanding local bus services.

During his speech, Robert also discussed rural broadband:

“I want to talk about poor broadband and mobile phone coverage, which holds back lots of areas. That is why roll-out of gigabit-capable broadband is so important. 

“It is encouraging that we are finally starting to see full-fibre getting out to some of the hardest-to-reach places in High Peak, but we have to get it to the homes, not just to the cabinet, which makes a big difference to speed. 

“Openreach has recently announced that it will be extending full-fibre to 11 Derbyshire market towns and villages, including Buxton, Glossop, and Chapel-en-le-Frith, which I wholeheartedly welcome.”

Concluding his remarks, Robert said:

“I want to acknowledge that improving rural productivity is a big challenge. There is no single silver bullet or single Act of Parliament, but if we work together, we can deliver for our constituents.”

Robert Largan MP commented:

“This debate was a good opportunity to make the case for more investment in the High Peak, especially our transport and digital infrastructure. Delivering more and better connections will go a long way toward raising local productivity.

“I will be working with colleagues from across the House to find the solutions the High Peak needs to build back better.”