Gwynedd Council is running an innovative campaign aimed at improving broadband provisions throughout the county and to encourage local residents and businesses to make the most of the internet so as to create a completely digital county.
A survey was conducted as part of the Digital Gwynedd campaign where more than 500 people gave their opinions and comments about their use of the internet, the quality of their web connection and what they would like to use the internet for.
The Council aims to raise awareness among people who live and work in Gwynedd of the potential of using digital technology and to promote wider use. Over the coming years there will be an opportunity for all homes and businesses to use the Welsh Government’s campaign to bring fast broadband connection to all areas of Wales. Gwynedd Council is preparing the way for this development.
Councillor Dyfed Edwards, Leader of Gwynedd Council, said: “The digital world presents a wonderful opportunity for Gwynedd’s residents and enterprises to have the same opportunities and advantages as other individuals and communities – locally and internationally.
“Thanks to the Digital Gwynedd scheme the Council will develop the use of information technology and we are working hard to ensure that everyone in Gwynedd has access to a decent broadband connection so that we can create a completely digital Gwynedd.”
Everyone who responded to the survey was entered into a prize draw for a chance to win one of the most talked about gadgets of recent times – an iPad. The lucky winner was David Buff of Bala.
Mr Buff said: “I took part in the survey as I was keen to support the cause of ensuring the whole of Gwynedd has fast broadband and I’m fed up of my painfully slow web connection.
“I was surprised to learn that I had won an iPad. Having worked in information technology for 38 years and am now retired I can honestly say that this is one of the best gadgets I have ever used.”
Anyone who has a poor broadband connection through a telephone line (less than 2 Mbps) can receive up to £1,000 through the Welsh Government’s Broadband Support Scheme to ensure a better connection through alternative means such as satellite, wi-fi connection or through 3G mobile technology. Help is available to homes, businesses, associations and communities clubbing together to improve broadband connection.
For more information about Digital Gwynedd visit www.gwynedd.gov.uk/digital
For more information about the Broadband Help Scheme telephone 029 2082 3765 or visit www.wales.gov.uk/broadband
