National Fibre Optic Could Cost the Government £15 Billion

The ex-head of research at BT Total broadband, Peter Cochrane, claims that the UK will need funding of up to £15 billion to create their planned nationwide fibre optic broadband roll out to all homes and businesses. Futurologist Mr. Cochrane, who ran BT’s research department for 7 years, claims that the estimated expected cost of £5 billion could and maybe will cost three times that amount, depending on the type of technology used and its deployment.

With the current uncertainty of the national election that’s engulfing the country, all 3 major parties have very different national broadband plans that could come into action depending on who wins. One thing is certain though, that whoever does make it into Government will have to pledge a lot more from their budgets to increase the UK’s national fibre optic network to the size that has been promised.

The private industry sector is already getting involved with BT Total broadband investing £1.5 billion for the improvements, whilst Virgin Media broadband will continue their superfast broadband trials throughout the UK. If the figure does reach an astounding £15 billion, the UK could be left lagging behind the rest of the world in broadband capability unless the funding and correct infrastructure are put into place.

Peter Cochrane said -

In the mind of the Government, the UK is at the forefront of the broadband revolution. Unfortunately, we are not even in the top 10. Our ranking is actually somewhere between 20th and 30th. So the clock is ticking. The UK has to grasp the nettle, stop all debate, and get on with the job.

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