Wales aims to make gigabit standard for new builds

Mon, 6/02/2023 - 16:25
Wales Openreach

Welsh Ministers have kicked off a consultation into proposals requiring housing developers to ensure new builds are equipped with gigabit capability.

The proposals will ensure that a gigabit-capable connection is installed in a new build home subject to a £2,000 cost cap per dwelling or where a gigabit-capable connection is not being installed, the next fastest broadband connection is installed without exceeding the £2,000 cost cap.

The proposal follows similar action in England through amendments to the Building Regulations 2010.

The consultation announced today will close on the 28 of April 2023, followed by the publication of responses and subsequently legislation being laid before the Senedd.

Minister for Economy Vaughan Gething said: “Access to fast and reliable broadband is an essential utility. It enables access to lifelong learning opportunities and public services, tackles social isolation, enables flexible home working and brings people together to tackle local and global issues.

“The proposals we are consulting on will help us go further and faster to make our homes fit for the future.”

Minister for Climate Change Julie James added: “Broadband connectivity is already standard in many developments, but with so many people working from home, it is now essential.”

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