Public funding to fill broadband gaps welcomed by AM

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 23rd Jun 2005

Michael German, Liberal Democrat area AM, has welcomed the decision by the European Commission to provide extra funds to tackle the lack of broadband access in 'blackspots' in Wales, three of which are in Monmouthshire.

"A quick check on BTs website shows that there are areas of Monmouthshire where without broadband coverage and no plans to upgrade local exchanges. The news that Euro funds will now be available to plug the last three remaining gaps is very welcome indeed. Monmouthshire will soon become a broadband county!"

Three exchanges near Monmouth are currently listed as being as being without broadband coverage: Cross Ash, Skenfrith and LLantilio Crossenny.

The Regional Innovative Broadband Support programme (RIBS) will target the 35 'blackspots' in Wales which do not currently have access to broadband, 3 of which are in Monmouthshire.

Cross Ash is one of the areas that will soon be benefiting from Broadband

Mr German added: 'Many rural communities have been denied access to broadband, because their sparse populations make converting their exchanges commercially unviable. This subsidy from Europe will correct that. It has the potential to have a particularly beneficial effect on the economy of the area; both in terms of improving the efficiency of existing local businesses, and in attracting new businesses'.