Work to bring fibre optic broad band to Ross is underway. Building the new network is a complex task and has involved over 60 people so far just for Ross-on-Wye. These people are not only BT Openreach engineers, but also the electricity companies who need to install power to the cabinets, and local authority planners to agree suitable locations for the new cabinets, particularly in conservation areas.

The installation of the new network does require some roads and pavements to be dug up to install the fibre and power cables required for the new cabinets. Any disruption to the road network has been kept to a minimum where possible by carrying out the work on Sundays to minimise the impact on local travel.

Adam Johnstone, BT Openreach Senior Project Manager for Fastershire, said: "I am delighted with the significant progress that we have made to date in Ross-on-Wye. This is a major engineering task and has meant some disruption in the local area, but we hope residents and businesses will understand knowing that the end result will transform the lives of those that take advantage of faster broadband."

The Ross-on-Wye exchange area has been the first to be upgraded as it feeds smaller exchanges such as St Weonards, Upton Bishop, Symonds Yat and Much Marcle which have also been announced as being among the first communities to benefit. Detailed planning work is currently taking place in these areas and work will begin over the next few months.

The first customers in the Ross-on-Wye exchange area are expected to be able to connect to the new network from the autumn this year. Those wishing to take advantage of the new network will need to get in contact with a broadband service provider of their choice and order a fibre package. A list of broadband providers can be found by visiting http://www.fastershire.com/how-to-get-it">www.fastershire.com/how-to-get-it, you can also register on this website to receive updates on the Fastershire project.