Coast to Capital's goal is to enable world-class digital connectivity in the area, creating high productivity for the economy. The project will support the roll-out of full fibre by commercial suppliers and help to increase the coverage of gigabit-capable broadband services. This will help to build business resilience during economic uncertainty and future-proof the north of the West Sussex area linking Burgess Hill to Horsham and Crawley.
Improving the digital network will allow more people to work or establish a business from home, reducing congestion and pressures on public transport. Fibre is also expected to be more efficient, having lower CO2 emissions than copper or cable technologies.
The scheme is subject to final checks and due diligence.
Jonathan Sharrock, Chief Executive at Coast to Capital said:
"The Coast to Capital Board were delighted to approve funding for the Fibre Connectivity project which has many economic benefits such as supporting digital inclusion. It is vital that we retain and build on the profile of West Sussex as a fantastic place to live, grow and succeed and we look forward to working with partners on the next stages of the project."
Minister for Local Growth, Rt Hon Jake Berry MP, said:
"We are committed to boosting economic growth across the whole of the UK and ensuring every community has the support and investment it needs to grow and flourish.
"Ensuring everyone has access to full fibre internet wherever they live is a top priority for this Government and this £2 million investment from the Local Growth Fund is helping to ensure areas of West Sussex are fully connected. It will help businesses to start up and grow, improving opportunities for local people and driving prosperity in the area."
West Sussex County Councillor Bob Lanzer, Cabinet Member for Economy and Corporate Resources said:
"We have an exciting ambition to put West Sussex on the map as a place for digital investment, innovation and expansion. We welcome this opportunity to explore building and owning infrastructure that we can offer to broadband suppliers to use to increase their reach in our communities and ensure that as many homes and businesses as possible benefit from access to gigabit-capable technology."
For more information on the investments portfolio and Local Industrial Strategy visit coast2capital.org.uk
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