Local MP Robert Largan has welcomed the announcement that Openreach will bring full-fibre broadband to at least three million more homes and businesses in some of the UK’s hardest to reach communities. This includes 9,587 homes and businesses in the High Peak.
 
Openreach will now bring full-fibre technology to a total of 25 million premises by an earlier deadline of December 2026, of which at least 6.2 million will be built via a commercially funded programme that focuses on the toughest-to-reach locations.
 
This will create a total of 7,000 new jobs across Openreach and its supply chain, accelerating the deployment of world-class digital infrastructure across the UK. Since 2017, Openreach has announced 9,000 apprenticeships.
 
Research from the Centre for Business and Economic Research shows that the national rollout can add up to £59 billion to the economy. The national rollout can also help cut carbon emissions by reducing the need for commuter journeys and could see 500,000 people move out of densely populated areas—potentially boosting rural economies like those in the High Peak.
 
These plans will help the UK Government to achieve its target of delivering ‘gigabit-capable broadband’ to 85 per cent of the UK by 2025. It will also ensure that taxpayer subsidies can be focused on upgrading homes and businesses that are economically unviable for the commercial sector.

Robert Largan MP commented:

“I'm really pleased to learn that 9,587 homes and businesses in High Peak will benefit from this new push from Openreach. I've seen first-hand the work done by Openreach engineers to get full-fibre built in our local area, and the new jobs it is creating.

“Getting full-fibre broadband rolled out nationwide is a crucial part of the levelling-up agenda. Making sure rural communities are better connected will create more opportunities across the High Peak, helping us to build back better.”