Next month will see homes and businesses in Cinderford get access to some of the quickest broadband speeds in the UK.

Cinderford's existing broadband speeds are around 16Mbps, well below the national average of 50Mbps+ but earlier this year, rural internet service provider Gigaclear began work to connect the town to its ultrafast, full-fibre broadband network.

This upgrade will bring speeds of up to 900Mbps to just under 5,500 homes and business premises across the town.

In total, the project will require over 12.5 kilometres of fibre which will be laid via trenching as well as through existing duct and pole infrastructure.

Jamie Flint, regional general manager at Gigaclear, said: "We already have a firm foothold in rural Gloucestershire through the Fastershire project with Building Digital UK (BDUK). Now, we are back in the region working independently on a commercial basis to bring ultrafast internet to towns, like Cinderford, which have been calling out for better connectivity for some time.

"Fast broadband speeds are a necessity for a modern economy. The way in which we live and work depends on the internet. We believe in digital inclusion for all and we're excited to bring our network to more people so they can enjoy the life-changing benefits that come with world-leading connectivity."

Mark Harper, MP for the Forest of Dean, added: "I am pleased to hear that Gigaclear are extending their ultrafast broadband network to Cinderford. I know this will be welcome news to residents and local business and I look forward to seeing the service go live over the next few months.

"I know how important good broadband is to my constituents and I am in regular touch with Gigaclear and will continue to follow their progress across the Forest of Dean with interest."

The first properties and businesses in Cinderford will be able to benefit from Gigaclear's network in June 2022. The entire build is scheduled for completion by Q2 2023.