City of London’s SE1 estates to get fibre broadband

The decision was made by the City Corporation's Community & children's Services committee earlier this month.

The new broadband services will be rolled out across the City Corporation’s social housing estates, which stretch across seven London boroughs including the City of London, Hackney, Islington, Lambeth, Lewisham, Southwark and Tower Hamlets.

In SE1, the William Blake Estate, Avondale Square Estate, Horace Jones House and the Southwark Estates will be covered by the scheme.

"We are responding to the need to provide faster internet access to Londoners at an affordable price," said Neal Hounsell, acting director of the City of London Corporation's community & children's services department.

"This project will mean that our housing developments in central London are better connected with faster broadband speeds."

Up to five internet providers per estate will be invited to bid for the opportunity to connect and will be selected based on affordability and quality of service. The City Corporation has asked potential providers to include reduced payment options for residents on low incomes and benefits.