Buckinghamshire Council is bringing ultrafast broadband to rural areas by teaming up with CGI and using satellite technology. Instead of the traditional fiber rollout, which can be expensive in hard-to-reach spots, they’re turning to low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. This approach will also provide free public Wi-Fi in village halls.
Martin Tett, the council leader, emphasizes that digital connectivity drives the county’s prosperity. Agriculture and tourism stand to gain the most from this service, but improving life for residents is also a top priority. “CGI has partnered with us for a smart approach to enhance connectivity in communities that often get overlooked,” he said.
This initiative aligns with Project Gigabit, a program launched in 2021 aimed at speeding up the UK’s recovery from Covid-19. It focuses on boosting tech and creative sectors while ensuring everyone has access to reliable broadband. When it kicked off, the UK government highlighted its intention to support areas with sluggish connections that commercial providers might not reach.
The current government has committed to providing gigabit-capable connectivity to 85% of the UK by the end of 2025, with a goal of full coverage by 2030. As of April 2024, over £1.3 billion has been invested in Project Gigabit contracts. This has enabled nearly 82% of UK properties to access gigabit broadband, up from just 7% five years ago. The investment has upgraded over a million rural homes, businesses, and public buildings.
LEO satellites, which orbit between 200 and 2,000 kilometers above Earth, are increasingly becoming a viable option for broadband. With costs coming down, many businesses are exploring LEO satellites for data services. In 2023, CGI conducted a pilot to demonstrate that combining LEO satellites with existing networks can efficiently extend broadband coverage.
Ian Dunbar, senior vice president of consulting services at CGI, notes, “This project is key to Buckinghamshire Council’s efforts in connecting rural communities. Fast and reliable internet is essential for delivering vital services, especially in remote areas like those in agriculture and tourism.”
