Wimborne and Blandford to get faster BT broadband

British Telecom says it is to roll out faster broadband services in two market towns in Dorset.

About 18,500 businesses and households in Wimborne and Blandford will enjoy a quicker connection - of up to 40Mb per second - by spring 2012, BT said.

The move is part of the telecoms company's £2.5bn programme to expand fibre broadband across the UK. The towns are among 41 to be selected.

North Dorset District Council said it was delighted by the news.

Deborah Croney, the local authority's cabinet member for economy, said: "If we are to provide a viable and competitive economic environment to support existing businesses and attract new ones to the area, then super-high-speed broadband is crucial.

"The type of high skill, globally competitive businesses which offer well remunerated jobs attractive to younger people need to trade worldwide over a 24-hour working day."