‘Looking to the heavens’ for broadband
29th May 2008
With reports of poor broadband access across much of Wales, one company has suggested that churches may be able to eradicate ‘notspots’.
Pembrokeshire-based wireless firm Telecoms Facilities has suggested that by installing Wi-Fi basestations in church spires, whole communities could get access to faster broadband services.
Although BT suggests that 99.6 per cent of Welsh residents have broadband access, the Welsh Consumer Council has asserted that the real figure is far lower in certain areas, the Western Mail reports.
"There are still many hundreds of mostly rural communities throughout the country who are unable to access the internet via a broadband connection," said Telecoms Facilities director Jonathan England.
He added that the new proposals would help the country to achieve 100 per cent broadband penetration, as well as providing an economic boost for local parishes.
A recent Ofcom report found that since 2006, broadband take-up in Wales has increased three per cent to currently stand at 45 per cent, a lower percentage point increase than was witnessed elsewhere in the UK.
Compare the latest wireless broadband deals here.
Member of the Internet Services Providers' Association
Member of the Broadband Stakeholder Group