The head of telecommunications giant BT in Wales is to meet with Montgomeryshire’s AM, Russell George and MP, Glyn Davies on Friday to discuss the areas broadband situation.
BT are currently laying fibre in several communities in the area, including around Newtown and Welshpool but Mr George and Mr Davies want assurances that all communities in Montgomeryshire will have access to high speed broadband.
They will meet with Ann Beynon, BT Director Wales, in Newtown when they will discuss the current situation and what can be done to allow “not spots” in rural areas access to broadband.
The meeting comes as local wireless broadband provider Xwavia announced 10 new jobs in Powys. The company, which is based near Welshpool is currently expanding its wireless provision.
“It’s important for everyone in Montgomeryshire and rural Wales to have access to good, high speed broadband. Broadband access is now a major factor in our lives whether we like it or not, with services such as banking and utility companies using it to access services, or simply for people to communicate with friends and family,” said Mr George.
“We must ensure all of our communities can access broadband and some of the important services it brings with it.”
Mr George also welcomed the news by Xwavia that it is to create 10 new jobs in the area. “The creation of skilled engineering and technical jobs is to be welcomed, providing good employment opportunities in the area.”
Mr Davies also welcomed Xwavia’s expansion, saying it provided another method for people to access broadband along with other wireless broadband companies in the area.
“When we meet with Ann Beynon we will want to know that areas where fibre or copper wire broadband delivery is difficult or slow they will be making arrangements to work with other companies to deliver technology such as wireless.
“Xwavia is one company championing this and with others we believe BT can provide a Montgomeryshire-wide broadband network for all.”
