Dale, a small rural community on the coast of Pembrokeshire has long endured poor internet connectivity that has plagued its residents with little to no ability to use the internet for work, communication or entertainment.  With the movement of most services and day-to-day tasks to online, having limited internet access was having a detrimental effect on residents who were experiencing firsthand the digital divide.

However, after being told about a UK Government funded project by Pembrokeshire County Council’s Digital Champions, this has now thankfully changed and much of Dale is now connected to gigabit-capable broadband that serves the whole village.

The Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme is part of the UK Government’s Project Gigabit programme, focused on helping hard-to-reach communities upgrade their broadband connection. Eligible homes and businesses can apply for up to £4,500 to cover the costs of a gigabit-capable connection.

With the voucher scheme, residents and businesses in eligible areas have been able to apply for financial help to cover the costs of installing gigabit broadband. 

 Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader, Cabinet Member for Place, the Region and Climate Change, said: “Connecting our rural communities is a significant step in the digital infrastructure of Pembrokeshire.

“Along with our partners, this extensive programme of work has transformed full fibre connectivity and will futureproof the network in our county. “The commitment from this authority will ensure our communities won’t be left without connection.

“There is more to do, but thanks to a proactive approach by the County Council, full fibre will be offered to more and more communities all the time.”

The benefits of being better connected rurally are uncontested with the results already being seen in Dale.  From helping local businesses to improving access to digital services, having reliable, fast internet access has been the core of the connectivity solution for the Pembrokeshire village.

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