An independent internet provider has secured £36m from the government to roll out super-fast broadbrand in Cornwall. Wildanet said the move would create around 200 jobs in the Duchy.
The two contracts - part of the government’s so-called Project Gigabit to supply hard-to-reach areas with better internet speeds - have been awarded to the Liskeard-based supplier. Under the plans, some 19,250 homes and businesses in South West and mid-Cornwall will be connected, the company said.
Work has started to survey rural homes and businesses from Newquay to Fowey, with building work to connect properties set to begin as early as the summer.
The jobs being created will include a range of roles across the build operation including network design, surveying and partner management, and engineering and head office positions. Wildanet said there would also be indirect "opportunities" for local companies such as civil contractors and through the supply chain.
Helen Wylde, Wildanet chief executive, said: "“This is great news for remote communities in Cornwall as we continue to connect Cornwall’s homes and businesses to full-fibre broadband in non-urban areas, with the economic and social transformation that brings.
“The funding from the government will help to breathe new life into Cornwall’s rural communities and give people access to the opportunities that gigabit broadband provides."
Wildanet is investing more than £50m in an ultrafast broadband network across Cornwall and Devon. The company said its training academy and apprenticeship programme would "continue to deliver skills" and make sure the jobs created through the contracts could be taken by people from the county.
Digital infrastructure minister Julia Lopez added: "From Tintagel to Tredavoe, we are investing millions of pounds to connect almost 20,000 homes and businesses across Cornwall to lightning-fast broadband. This will generate growth and opportunity for people in the region’s rural communities."
READ NEXT
- Full list of South West projects to receive levelling up cash
- Walker Crips opens new Cornwall office and makes senior South West hire
- Mining firm Cornish Metals makes discovery while drilling at South Crofty mine in Cornwall
- South West business finance group appoints former World Bank economist
Like this story? Why not sign up to get the latest South West business news straight to your inbox.
