Next-generation broadband to boost training opportunities in Manchester

14:29 16th March 2009

A next-generation broadband network could boost computer training resources in one part of Manchester within the next few weeks.

The Oxford Road region of the city is to receive next-generation broadband services that could enable web users to enjoy connection speeds 1,000 times faster than they currently receive, facilitating home learning and hastening download times.

Manchester authorities are keen to implement high-speed broadband as quickly as possible in order to allow the city to compete more effectively with European rivals like Paris and Amsterdam.

Councillor Neil Swannick, executive member for the environment, said: "It is vital that we have accessible and affordable super-fast broadband, based on the proven state-of-the-art capabilities of fibre and advanced wireless; this is what the Next Generation Digital City project aims to do."

He added that the high-speed service being introduced in a few weeks will coincide with the anniversary of the first real computer in the world, built in Manchester 60 years ago.

Next-generation broadband for the whole of the UK is estimated to cost nearly £30 billion.