Switch on for faster access (From Stroud News and Journal)

Switch on for faster access

TELEPHONE exchanges in Nailsworth and Brimscombe have now been activated for broadband after vigorous campaigns by townspeople and businesses.

BT has spent between £250,000 and £500,000 activating the two exchanges which, between them, will serve around 9,000 business and households.

Stroud MP David Drew, who visited the Nailsworth exchange last Monday, said:

"Broadband has been shown to make a major contribution to the competitiveness of businesses as well as offering exciting study and entertainment opportunities for individuals.

"It will play a vital and lasting role in the future success of this area."

Nailsworth accelerated its campaign for broadband after estate agents expressed fears its absence was putting homebuyers off purchasing property in the area.

Last week, BT announced its one-millionth broadband connection and is aiming for five million by 2006.

Broadband is a high speed Internet connection operating through existing phone lines, between ten and 40 times faster than a standard internet connection.

It is always on and charged at a fixed monthly fee.