The better broadband plan for Oxfordshire

Why does Oxfordshire need this plan?

Broadband infrastructure providers have focused their efforts on larger towns and cities due to the large number of potential customers. It makes good commercial sense for them to do this.

Oxfordshire is the most rural county in the South East. Although broadband infrastructure is gradually extending into more rural areas, some parts of the county are being left behind.

Vision

• Businesses and residents will not be left behind by poor Internet access.
• People will enjoy broadband that's available like any other utility.
• People across the county will reap the benefits of being connected.
• Schools will access more resources.
• Businesses can be run from home.
• Families can stay easily connected.
• Jobs can easily be found.
• Public services can easily be accessed.
• Business will develop and grow.

Funding

£13.86 million is being invested in Oxfordshire to provide better broadband. £10 million of that is coming from Oxfordshire County Council and £3.86 million from Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK). We are also seeking contributions from the private sector.

Our role

Oxfordshire County Council's role in the better broadband plan is to understand the needs of residents and businesses and help them to get access to better Internet connections. We will:

• coordinate national, local authority and community investment
• lead on the procurement
• co-ordinate between partner organisations
• keep local communities and partners informed. 

At the end of the project, the council will not own the broadband infrastructure.

What happens next?

We are currently talking with potential broadband infrastructure providers and we expect to announce our plans in spring 2013.

Infrastructure improvements are expected to be delivered by the successful bidder from 2013 onwards. The work will focus on areas with poor connectivity.

Once the infrastructure is in place, you'll be able to buy your broadband service from the usual range of Internet service providers (ISPs).