TONY Blair's broadband Britain will bypass Redditch if British Telecom has anything to do with it.
Our neighbours in Bromsgrove have access to ADSL broadband from BT.
However BT, in its infinite wisdom, has decided it will not introduce the necessary technology into Redditch unless BT receives firm orders from customers.
This will put Redditch businesses and homes at a disadvantage as the rest of the country enjoys the speed of ADSL broadband, which is typically 10 times faster than an analogue modem and provides an always-on connection.
BT offers 66 per cent of the country ADSL as a service without the requirement of upfront orders, so why should Redditch residents be treated any differently?
BT has a website where determined Redditch residents who want ADSL broadband can register their interest.
BT predetermines the level of demand before it will invest in ADSL - for instance, the BT exchange at Headless Cross requires 350 people to place orders. Currently there are two.
If people in Redditch are interested in faster, cheaper internet for their business or home, they should go to this website www.bt.com/broadband/
Edward Hornsey
via e-mail
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article