Ministers confirm broadband millions for Leeds and Bradford

THE Government has confirmed Leeds and Bradford will receive £14.4m to roll out a new ultra-fast broadband network.

The network will cover 16,000 businesses and 88,000 homes in Leeds and Bradford and offer free wireless access in the two city centres.

Leeds and Bradford were first promised a share of a £114m fund to support the project in the Budget in March and the commitment was also included in the Leeds City Region city deal announced in July.

Marketing Leeds chief executive Lurene Joseph said: “Today’s announcement of £14.4m of finding for  Leeds and Bradford is fantastic for both cities. The funding will enable us to transform our economy and help to set standards in international competitiveness.”

Leeds and Bradford secured the second highest allocation from the fund after London, with Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Manchester and Newcastle also receiving a share.

Culture Secretary Maria Miller said: “Fast broadband is essential for growth, and is key to the country’s economic future. Leeds and Bradford have produced an ambitious and comprehensive plan, which will turn them into digital leaders and give the local economies a real boost.”