Government funding set to provide £40m broadband boost for Kidderminster firms

The UK Government today announced a £41.9 million funding award for the region under its flagship Project Gigabit broadband roll-out scheme. 

Worcestershire County Council says the funding will be delivered in partnership with Openreach and is expected to extend gigabit broadband to an additional 23,800 homes and businesses across the county. 

The move supports the authority's target of achieving 90% gigabit broadband coverage by December 2027, aligning with the national goal of 100% coverage by 2030.

"I’m delighted to see this transformative investment in Worcestershire’s digital infrastructure. Our broadband improvement programme has already made a real impact, with more homes and businesses than ever accessing faster, more reliable internet," said Councillor Adam Kent, Cabinet Member for the Economy at Worcestershire County Council. 

"This latest funding means we can go even further, enabling our residents and businesses to embrace the digital opportunities of the future.

"Through the combination of private and public investment, we’re future-proofing Worcestershire’s connectivity, keeping us competitive and ensuring our communities can thrive in the digital age."

The project builds on the success of Worcestershire's broadband roll-out to date, with areas like Bromsgrove, Redditch, and Worcester City Districts already boasting gigabit coverage rates of 88.2%, 93.28%, and 88.8% respectively—well above the UK average of 85.87%. 

Worcestershire County Council says the county is now on track to meet the Government's 2025 target of 85% coverage, with the new funding set to significantly accelerate this progress. 

"Importantly, this investment will extend further into rural communities, ensuring they are connected," added a spokesperson. 

"For rural businesses, it unlocks opportunities for innovation, enhances productivity, and opens doors to global markets."