MP calls on Everything Everywhere to extend super-fast broadband services to South Lakes

Following the recent announcement that digital communications company Everything Everywhere (EE) are going to launch a 4G fixed and mobile broadband service across the Northern Fells in Cumbria, South Lakes MP Tim Farron has called on the company to extend their plans to deliver superfast broadband to the Southern Fells as well.

Last week EE made the announcement that they will deliver benefits of 4G superfast internet access to area covering almost 100 square miles and more than 2,000 residents in the UK's highest concentration of home workers. However they are limiting their investment to the Northern Fells, which means under the current plans those living in rural communities in the South Lakes will not benefit.

The current lack of superfast broadband is a disadvantage for local businesses because it restricts the speed at which they can communicate and work online. This is a time consuming problem that affects daily tasks.

Tim has written to the Chief Executive Officer of EE, Olaf Swantee, highlighting the desire of many of his constituents who want to support the project and have access to the benefits of superfast broadband in their homes and businesses.

Commenting Tim said: "Superfast broadband is the key to unlocking the potential of the South Lakes and it is therefore essential that we find a way to ensure that everyone has access to it.

"It is great news that Everything Everywhere are making this leap forward to bring 4G broadband to rural parts of Cumbria, but I want to see that the Southern Fells aren't forgotten and that they are included within this project so that those living in remote communities in our area get access to superfast broadband as well.

"High speed broadband will enable farmers and rural businesses to reach their full potential and contribute fully to our recovery, however if they are left behind this could impact negatively on these communities and the wider economy."