A New Romney company is expanding the high-speed broadband network across the Romney Marsh to bring improved internet speeds for residents and businesses.
Funding for the expansion has been awarded by Folkestone & Hythe District Council using money from central government’s Rural England Prosperity Fund – this is a £350,000 capital grant pot of funding available for both businesses and community projects in areas across the district classed as rural locations.
EAV Networks Limited (EAV Net) has used the grant funding to purchase and install additional specialist equipment, which is required to expand their wireless broadband network within the Romney Marsh area.
The grant, together with personal investment, has helped provide more wireless transmitters across the Romney Marsh and added high-capacity bridges between various repeater sites.
Many households and local organisations currently receive very slow internet speeds but – thanks to this project – this will change.
Paving the way for more packages offering higher speeds for more residents and businesses in the future.
Cllr Rich Holgate, Cabinet Member for the District Economy said: “We’re incredibly excited that organisations have jumped at the chance to reap the benefits which the grant programme aims to bring to rural communities.
“It’s not only important for the companies themselves, but for hard-to-reach areas, such the Marsh, it gives greater attention to the thriving local economy we know that’s there.
“There is still funding available, and we would urge any company or individual to check if any rural-focussed projects might be eligible for support.”
Folkestone & Hythe District Council was awarded more than half a million pounds over a two-year period (starting in October 2023) from central government’s Rural England Prosperity Fund and has been using it specifically to address challenges rural areas face.
Investment to deliver growth and resilience, net zero infrastructure, diversification as well as start-up and expansion opportunities have all been a focus.
Grants for local communities have also gone to improve local facilities and amenities specifically aimed at enhancing physical, cultural and social ties.
Managing Director at EAV Networks Limited, Sonny Spencer added: “With the help of the grant scheme, and further personal investment we were able to expand our services and begin to fulfil our goal of providing broadband free of charge to local community halls, churches and other similar community ventures.
“Residents now have more options when it comes to communications systems and more importantly, they have an affordable option that is also local.”
Visit the council’s economic development website Folkestone Works for details on funding and to check eligibility.
More information about the Rural England Prosperity Fund can be found on gov.uk.