About the scheme and processes
About the scheme
Connect Westminster Residents is a voucher scheme created by Westminster City Council with the strategic objective of reducing the presence of not-spots within Westminster.
To identify not-spots within the city extensive connectivity mapping has been undertaken using the data collected by Ofcom in their Connected Nations Report, and this has been supplement by an Open Market Review conducted in 2021 in which suppliers were invited to share their projected commercial rollout plans until Summer 2024.
Intervention Areas (IAs) for the scheme were then identified as areas that would not be covered under the commercial activity of suppliers, and currently experience the worst levels of connectivity.
The scheme was launched in early 2022 and is designed to encourage active suppliers in Westminster to build new gigabit-capable full fibre networks in the identified target areas IAs.
Why full fibre?
Full fibre offers residents, businesses, and guests the fastest and most reliable broadband speeds currently available. Fibre supports connections of up to 1 Gigabit (that’s 1,000 megabits), this is a huge leap from the sub 30mbps speeds currently available in some IAs meaning that this solution will offer future benefits as well as current.
Gigabit capable broadband also supports symmetrical connections, which means that both your download and upload speeds can be the same.
How does Connect Westminster Residents work?
Residents will have the cost of creating their connection covered by the voucher up to £500, the voucher will be issued to the resident and redeemable by suppliers once a residential premises is connected and they have taken up service.
The following flowchart shows the process:
- Check our up-to-date maps to see target areas open to application
- Submit a fully costed proposal to provide fibre network in the chosen area(s)
- We will conduct an initial review – you may be asked some follow-ups
- If approved - the build phase can begin (check here for live builds)
- Residents are invited to connect – check availability in your area
- As connections are made, voucher funds can be drawn down
Please note:
- as a local authority we are required to operate with neutrality, therefore we encourage all interested parties to apply or enquire further detail
- vouchers will be supplied on a first come, first served basis per resident
As a resident, how can I register my interest or any connectivity issues I have?
We are always looking for a clearer image of user experience across Westminster, it helps us to determine which areas will be targeted with our interventions. If you are experiencing issues with connectivity, please complete this form and we will log the information.