Two Cumbrian councils are highlighting the importance of reliable, high-quality digital connectivity as Cumbria enters the busy summer period.
Cumberland Council and Westmorland and Furness Council said that strong and dependable digital services were more important than ever as the county welcomed residents, businesses and visitors.
The authorities said fast, dependable internet and mobile services underpinned daily life in both the remote valleys in the Lake District to the county’s busy urban centres.
According to the authorities, nearly 97 per cent of premises can now access superfast broadband, more than 87 per cent benefit from gigabit-capable speeds, and more than 99 per cent of properties in Cumbria are covered by outdoor 4G from at least one provider.
They said this made it an ideal time for people to review their connectivity options.
The councils added that strong digital connectivity was no longer a luxury for Cumbria, but was instead essential infrastructure.
Councillor Peter Thornton, digital champion for Westmorland and Furness Council, said: “As Cumbria enjoys the summer months, strong connectivity is vital, particularly in rural areas.
“It helps people stay in touch, access services and enjoy modern life wherever they are.”
The authorities said that businesses across tourism, agriculture, manufacturing and the creative industries relied heavily on strong digital infrastructure.
They said high-speed connectivity enabled online trading, global collaboration and sustainable growth.
Councillor Chris Southward, Cumberland Council’s digital champion, said: “Connectivity plays a vital role in helping our businesses make the most of summer, supporting growth, innovation and jobs across the county.
“These works are vital to delivering the fast, reliable connectivity our communities depend on, with significant long-term benefits.”
The authorities added that mobile connectivity was also key to a positive visitor experience for the millions of visitors expected, supporting navigation, bookings and real-time information access.
They said that ongoing investment in broadband and mobile infrastructure remained critical, and while upgrades could cause temporary disruption, they were essential to delivering long-term improvements.
Russ Withey, founder of independent music promotion company RockWith, said: “As a creative business working across Cumbria, reliable connectivity is essential, especially during the busy summer months.
“We collaborate with artists remotely, support events and share content with audiences worldwide every day.
“Fast, dependable connectivity helps us make the most of the season while competing globally from a rural location, and continued investment is vital to support growth and opportunity.”
