Connecting Cumbria Newsletter
Welcome to the April edition of the Connecting Cumbria newsletter. As Cumbria continues to modernise its digital infrastructure, we’re pleased to share the latest updates on broadband, mobile connectivity, and how residents and businesses can make the most of the opportunities digital connectivity brings.
If you have any questions regarding online connectivity in your area, contact the team at info@connectingcumbria.org.uk
Project Gigabit Update
The UK Government’s Project Gigabit programme continues to make strong progress towards delivering gigabit‑capable broadband to 99% of UK properties by 2032, combining commercial investment with targeted public funding to reach even the hardest‑to‑access areas.
In Cumbria, delivery remains on track, with around 96% of properties expected to have access to gigabit‑capable broadband by 2027/28. This improved connectivity will help future‑proof communities, support businesses, create opportunities for investment, and strengthen digital access across the county.
A key part of this work is the Project Gigabit contract between BDUK and Fibrus, operating locally as Hyperfast GB. The rollout aims to reach up to 58,000 properties, with over 30,000 already able to access gigabit‑capable services. Deployment is expected to complete by the end of 2027.
To check whether your property is included in the current rollout, visit the Hyperfast GB website - Home - Hyperfast GB
|
Mobile Connectivity
Reliable mobile connectivity underpins everyday life across Cumbria.
Significant improvements are being delivered through the UK Government Shared Rural Network mobile programme (SRN) programme. This nationwide initiative focuses on improving mobile coverage in rural and hard‑to‑reach locations, where traditional commercial rollout alone would not be viable.
As of March 2026, the SRN programme had brought 122 government‑funded mast upgrades into service across the UK. This includes 31 upgraded sites in England, 9 of which are located in Cumbria and are now providing coverage from all major mobile networks. These upgrades are already making a difference for communities that previously experienced limited or unreliable mobile signal.
Residents and businesses can review current mobile coverage at their location, including 4G and 5G availability, by using the Ofcom Mobile Availability Checker here, which offers the most up‑to‑date information for each network.
|
Alongside public investment, several commercial broadband providers are continuing to expand their full fibre networks across Cumbria. Many more large areas are expected to go live with full fibre services through these in the next 12 months.
If full fibre becomes available, or is planned in your area, it’s worth reviewing your options to ensure you’re benefiting from the latest technology and the best package for your needs. The Ofcom broadband checker provides an up‑to‑date overview of the networks and speeds currently accessible at your address helping you find a package that best suits your home or business needs.
|
The Borderlands 5G Innovation Region programme continues through its delivery phase, with temporary setups now being replaced by permanent 5G infrastructure at all four core locations: Kielder, Destination Tweed, Stranraer Marina, and Windermere. Teams are working in close partnership with local organisations to integrate the technology into day‑to‑day activities, supporting a growing range of practical and innovative applications at each site. This next stage represents an important milestone for the programme, as earlier groundwork begins to deliver tangible benefits and create lasting opportunities across the Borderlands region.
You can find out more about the programme by visiting the Borderlands 5G Innovation Region webpage here and following us on LinkedIn here.
|
The UK is transitioning away from old analogue copper phone lines as part of the move to digital services. Traditional landline services delivered over the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be fully retired by January 2027 and the transition process is well advanced in many areas.
Households and businesses should:
- Check whether phones, alarms, payment terminals, or telecare devices rely on a landline
- Speak to providers about digital voice known as Voice over IP (VoIP) and suitable broadband connections
- Ensure contingency plans are in place for power cuts, such as battery backup systems, especially for vulnerable users
More information on what this change means is available through the Government’s Fixed Telecoms Modernisation Charter here.
Many households are eligible for social tariffs — reduced‑price broadband and phone packages designed for people receiving certain benefits, including Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and Employment and Support Allowance.
These tariffs:
- Typically cost between £10 – £24 per month
- Offer superfast speeds (often 30 Mbps or more)
- Have no exit fees and no mid‑contract price rises
- Can be switched to at any time if you’re eligible
Ofcom encourages anyone on benefits to check whether they qualify here.
From 8th April 2026, Ofcom has strengthened consumer protections for telecoms customers.
What’s changed?
- Customers can now escalate unresolved complaints to an independent dispute‑resolution scheme after six weeks, reduced from eight
- Automatic compensation payments for delayed repairs, missed appointments, and delayed service start dates have increased in line with inflation
- Compensation is paid automatically — customers don’t need to ask
These changes mean quicker resolutions and clearer rights when things go wrong.
Find out more here.
New research from Ofcom reveals changing digital habits across the UK:
- Adults are becoming more passive on social media, posting less and favouring short‑lived content
- Use of AI tools has increased significantly, with some adults using them for companionship, creativity, and productivity
- More people are earning income through online side hustles, such as selling goods or providing digital services
- Concerns about screen time, mental wellbeing, and digital footprints are growing
The research highlights why reliable connectivity, good digital skills, and online safety remain crucial.
Read the full findings here.
Scammers are becoming increasingly convincing, whether it’s emails, texts, phone calls or online offers.
If something doesn’t feel quite right, it’s worth checking before you act. Citizens Advice has a helpful guide to help you spot the warning signs and decide what to do next.
Find out more here.
We are always looking for Cumbrian businesses to feature in upcoming publicity opportunities as the next Connecting Cumbria case study story. We have some great case studies in the pipeline and thank the businesses involved for supporting us on this.
If improved broadband or mobile connectivity has helped your business to:
- Grow or reach new markets
- Adopt new digital tools
- Support remote working
- Improve customer service
…we’d love to hear from you. Sharing real-world stories helps demonstrate the value of digital investment and supports future rollout across the county.
Get in touch with the team to express your interest at info@connectincumbria.org.uk. In the meantime, readers can take a look at our previous case study stories here.
Follow us on Social Media
You can now follow the team on social media for all the latest news and information regarding connectivity across Cumbria.
Facebook
X (formerly Twitter)
Any likes and shares are always appreciated.
|
Thank you for continuing to support Cumbria’s digital journey. We’ll be back next month with further updates as connectivity improves across the county.
|
