Broadband provider lands £35m funding for growth plans

Wessex Internet, a broadband provider delivering full-fibre broadband across Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire, and South Somerset, has obtained £35m in funding, including a Senior Debt Facility from Triodos Bank UK.

This financial boost aims to support the expansion of UK Government subsidy contracts, facilitating the deployment of connectivity in rural areas of South West England.

This partnership with Triodos Bank underscores a shared vision of fostering a more inclusive and digitally connected future for rural communities.

Through the implementation of gigabit-capable broadband, households stand to benefit from improved bandwidth, businesses can enhance productivity, and public services will become more accessible in remote areas.

Amandine Tetot, head of project finance at Triodos Bank UK, said: “Wessex Internet has proven its model and successfully installed high-speed internet connections to some of the most rural properties in Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Somerset. We’re pleased to provide finance to accelerate its expansion and roll-out strategy, allowing more businesses and households to cross the digital divide. Promoting inclusion in society is a strategic priority for us and supporting broadband infrastructure enables more people to fully participate in an increasingly digital society.”

Alex Anderson, investment director, from Core Infrastructure, said: “Since September 2022, we have worked alongside and supported Wessex Internet in expanding their network across rural parts of South West England and are delighted to extend the partnership to include Triodos. Securing this further capital investment is a huge testament to the whole Wessex Internet teams’ endless energy and capability in managing and delivering networks in the hardest-to-reach areas, building on an impressive existing footprint and under several exclusive contracts. We look forward to seeing the business continue to grow, helping to drive productivity, connect communities and reduce the digital divide across the UK.”