Gigabit Capable broadband is the next generation of connectivity, able to deliver speeds of 1Gb (1000Mb). Following decision CAB13 19-20 in February 2020, the County Council’s Digital Infrastructure Team is working with partners, communities and suppliers to promote the Government Gigabit Voucher Scheme (GBVS) administered by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).
Currently residents and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in rural areas can obtain up to £1,500 and £3,500 respectively towards the cost of a gigabit capable installation. Despite this there are still instances where the scheme is still not viable for residents and SME’s in some hardest to reach areas. The County Council therefore proposes to utilise the option to undertake a ‘top up’ to the GBVS scheme to increase the viability and attractiveness of the scheme in rural communities which include some of the hardest to reach and least commercially viable areas. This involves working with residents, SMEs and suppliers to aggregate demand in rural eligible areas. This will include promotion of the scheme, community engagement and allocation of resources to overcome barriers faced by rural communities.
Decision type: Key
Reason Key: Expenditure > £500,000;
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Divisions affected: (All Divisions);
Notice of proposed decision first published: 18/03/2020
Decision due: June 2020 by Executive Director Place Services
Lead director: Lee Harris
Contact: Sarah Bazen, Digital Infrastructure Program Manager Email: sarah.bazen@westsussex.gov.uk Tel: 033 022 22374.
Consultation process
Representation can be made via the officer contact prior to the month in which the decision is due to be taken.
Consultees
West Sussex Full Fibre Programme Board; Bob Lanzer, Cabinet Member for Economy and Corporate Resources
Democratic Services Contact: Suzannah Hill Tel: 033 022 22551
Background3: Prosperous Place