The UK government has launched a consultation process for proposals that ensure new-build homes have a gigabit broadband connection installed so that they’re ready for the future. While the vast majority already come with gigabit connections, about one-in-ten do not and the government wants to change that.
Under the proposed changes, home developers will be legally required to build gigabit broadband into new homes in England and make it a priority that this is done. When construction plans are submitted to local councils, developers will need to have a broadband network operator on board who can perform the installation when the time comes.
By installing connections during the home-building process, it will save money as doing the work afterward can be costly. The reason that some homes are built without gigabit is that costs can be higher for some properties or sometimes broadband companies do not have time to install the connection before construction is finished. The new plans should resolve these issues.
Commenting on the proposals, Digital Infrastructure Minister Julia Lopez said:
“We are moving rapidly in our national mission to make sure everyone can benefit from faster gigabit-speed broadband. National coverage has jumped from six per cent to sixty-five per cent in just two years.
The law changes we are consulting on today will help us go further and faster to make our homes fit for the future with the infrastructure people will need to take advantage of new technologies in the coming decades”
The government’s consultation will be open for 10 weeks and will come to a close on 28 February 2022. If you want to know more about the consultation, the government’s website has a dedicated page.