£3,000 available to firms for broadband work

£3,000 available to firms for broadband work

22 July 2015

COMPANIES in  Newry, Mourne and Down District are being urged to apply now for grants of up to £3,000 to improve their current broadband service.

Many companies experiencing limitations with their current service, or those needing to significantly expand their capacity, can now get help with installation of the most suitable equipment to upgrade their current broadband connection.   

Companies applying to the Super Connected Voucher Scheme receive support of up to £3,000 each to pay for the equipment and installation costs. Companies only have to pay the VAT charged and the monthly line rental to the service provider AA, following identification and installation of the most appropriate technology solution, whether via fixed line fibre, or a range of broadcast options.

Companies can also group together using their vouchers collectively and agree a common solution in an area, building or business park that will best meet their business needs.

Launching the scheme at the district’s local enterprise centres in Newry and in Downpatrick, council chairwoman, Naomi Bailie said: “ This new investment will allow businesses to avail of Superfast Broadband using the most suitable technological solution for their location and business activities.

“It is vital that Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and other stakeholders in this area provide our businesses with the infrastructure to develop their products and ensure they receive every assistance to achieve success in local, regional, national and international markets. 

“The Council has been very aware of some of the connection and line capacity problems limiting local businesses communications and digital capability  in parts of the district for an extensive period. We sincerely hope that the Super Connected Broadband Voucher Scheme will be very significant in addressing many of these problems.  But, as a customer-focused and demand-led scheme the success of the scheme depends on businesses coming forward, identifying their need, and applying for a voucher.  

“And it isn’t just hi-tech and creative industries that can benefit. This digital infrastructure is providing a major boost to other sectors, including manufacturing, professional services, retail as well as the community and voluntary sectors. So all private sector as well as voluntary and social economy sector organisations should be looking to see if they can use this new investment to their advantage.”

All interested companies can find out more by contacting Michael Forster, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council on Tel: 028 4461 0856 or by emailing: connectionvouchers@nmandd.org 

Alternatively businesses can apply online by visiting: www.belfastcity.gov.uk/connectionvouchers