A GOVERNMENT-backed satellite broadband subsidy scheme could end years of waiting for fast broadband for homes and businesses in rural Tynedale, according to one of the country’s largest satellite broadband providers.

Northumberland County Council’s iNorthumberland broadband programme, in conjunction with the Government’s Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK), is making available the option of a subsidised satellite broadband system for eligible premises.

Avonline Broadband is one of the companies supporting iNorthumberland to install systems in eligible homes.

Managing director Mark Wynn said: “We are delighted to offer eligible homes and business a state-of-the-art satellite broadband system connected absolutely free of charge.

“The new scheme is open to all premises in the county currently unable to access broadband speeds of more than 2Mbps and with no imminent plans to receive superfast fibre.

“The Government is to be commended for acting to help those who cannot be reached under current superfast broadband plans.

“For many homes and businesses in rural areas satellite broadband is their only realistic solution of a better broadband connection over the next few years, and this subsidy scheme helps those most in need of a broadband boost.”

Satellite broadband’s unique ‘available anywhere’ technology can immediately deliver fast internet to any home or business, regardless of location or remoteness.

Full details of Avonline’s offers are available online at www.avonlinebroadband .com or by calling 0303 303 3131.

Mr Wynn added: “Under the scheme, we have removed the barrier of an upfront cost for customers, so as soon as we have a valid subsidy code from them, it can mean that a better broadband connection is delivered to them within just a week or so from order.”

The company has also developed a complementary range of broadband offers for those who need faster broadband but do not qualify for the Government support.

“We have the same satellite services that are offered under the scheme and more, available directly, for those customers than can receive above 2Mbps and hence are not eligible for the subsidised scheme, but understandably want better broadband nonetheless,” added Mr Wynn.

Avonline Broadband is the largest provider of satellite broadband services to the UK and is an authorised partner delivering Government subsidised satellite packages in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, offering up to 30Mbps superfast broadband subject to eligibility.

Prime Minister David Cameron recently pledged that everyone in the country would have the legal right to a broadband connection of 10Mbps as part of the introduction of a new Universal Service Obligation (USO).

However according to the recent Ofcom Connected Nations 2015 report around 8 per cent of UK homes – some 2.4m – are currently unable to receive speeds of 10Mbps or above.

The figure increases to 48 per cent – or 1.5m – in rural areas, where speeds are often affected by premises lying further from the network’s local street cabinet or telephone exchange.

gemma.brown@hexham-courant.co.uk