BT chosen to provide superfast broadband in Wiltshire

Wiltshire Council has announced that British Telecom has been chosen as the preferred bidder to provide superfast broadband across the Wiltshire and South Gloucestershire area.

Welcoming the announcement, John Thomson, cabinet member for communities, said: "I am delighted we have been able to work with our partner to select our preferred bidder to deliver this much needed service. Providing faster broadband access across the county will transform the lives of many residents and businesses who struggle to make full use of the internet and online services. This project is vital to our economy. Having high speed internet connectivity will be critical to the success of businesses already based in the county, and will also be a huge attraction to those looking to move in."

John Goddard of South Gloucestershire Council said: "We were delighted to have joined Wiltshire in selecting BT as our preferred bidder in one of the country's most advanced broadband development projects. This demonstrates our firm commitment to the modern telecommunications infrastructure that our businesses and communities need."

In June the partnership launched a procurement process inviting businesses to bid for the contract and demonstrate why they would provide the best value for money and highest level of service.

The contract will be awarded once European State Aid is granted to the UK by the European Commission. The roll out of the broadband improvements will be completed in 2015.

The procurement programme is being led by Wiltshire Council with an investment of £15.5m with an additional £4.66m government funding. South Gloucestershire Council is investing £2.2m in the district's broadband provision, alongside £710,000 of Government funding. The contract is due to be signed off in early December.