Local input sought to bring UFB to Whanganui

Chester Borrows is calling on local authorities to make their case to bring Ultra-Fast Broadband (UFB) to Whanganui.

The Government has launched the next step in its $2 billion fibre investment with a Registration of Interest document seeking input from local councils and technology providers on why their town should get UFB and RBI (Rural Broadband Initiative).

“Better access to faster broadband is something that’s raised with me often as the local MP. This is our chance to get directly involved and show why we need UFB in Whanganui and how we would support broadband extensions in our community,” says Mr Borrows.

“Over the coming weeks I want to hear from council and local providers about their ideas on how we could support the roll out and uptake of better services in our district,”

Mr Borrows said the benefits of bringing UFB/RBI to Whanganui were exponential.

“Digital connectivity is a key part of growing our local economy. Ensuring our local businesses, schools, homes and health care providers have access to fast and reliable broadband means more opportunities for our community,”

The Government is investing an additional $152 million to $210 million to lift the Ultra-Fast Broadband programme coverage from 75 percent to 80 percent of New Zealanders.

It is also investing $100 million to expand the Rural Broadband programme, and $50 million to improve mobile coverage in black spot areas along main highways and in popular tourist destinations.

ENDS.

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