The Council has granted planning approval for the installation of 50 new broadcast cabinets across the district to boost internet services and speeds. The new broadband cabinets will be installed across the Council area with particular focus around Kilkeel, South Armagh and Downpatrick. A Council spokesperson said the move is at strategic priority moving for Newry Mourne and Down District Council. “The Council welcomes the increase of broadband infrastructure within the district to support accessibility to new and existing business and domestic users. This initiative also compliments the current ‘super connected broadband voucher scheme’ and public wifi initiatives which are currently being provided by the Council,” said the spokesperson. South Down MLA Karen McKevitt said the announcement is welcome news for businesses and residences across the district. “The issue of internet connectivity has been a growing concern among people living in rural communities with regular complaints centering around slow internet speeds. Increasingly there is a perception among those living in a rural setting that they are getting left behind,” said the SDLP representative. “It is unreasonable to expect economic growth if this failing is not remedied. Businesses will be turned off from investing if we are unable to guarantee an effective broadband infrastructure a fundamental prerequisite for almost any business model. While it may have been a luxury in years past the simple reality is that efficient internet speeds have become a necessity today particularly for businesses if they are to flourish. This decision shows a commitment to connectivity and I hope it acts as a statement of intent for action in the near future.” Meanwhile the Council said technical difficulties have lead to the loss of free wifi in Newry city centre in recent weeks but that matter is currently being addressed. A spokesperson said: “The Newry City Public WIFI Project is one of three being implemented by the Council (others being Warrenpoint and Kilkeel town centres). Technical issues are being dealt with currently in Newry and it is hoped that this will be operational as soon as possible.
Newry Reporter
5th August 2015
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