Thousands of people could get access to broadband ‘at cheaper rates, for less hassle’, says council

GMCA research estimates that up to 60 percent of social housing residents face barriers to accessing online services.

Thousands of people in Greater Manchester could soon be getting access to cheaper broadband. A new scheme by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) could connect 260k social housing tenants ‘at cheaper rates, for less hassle’, according to the council. 

The deal with housing providers and national broadband companies is supposed to combat digital exclusion in Greater Manchester. Around 60 percent of those in social housing struggle to access online services. 

And nationally, more than 1m have lost broadband access since the start of the cost of living crisis due to spiralling costs. A lack of connectivity can have huge knock-on effects, making it harder for kids to complete their homework, job-seekers to find employment or those in need to access digital health and social care support. 

But the new ‘Wayleave agreement’ with O2, Nexfibre, Openreach and Hyperoptic will ‘standardise’ the process of getting tenants connected, which in turn would bring down prices. The Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham said he was ‘pleased’ about the scheme, which will ensure ‘no one is left behind’. 

Mr Burnham said: “Being able to get online quickly and easily is essential for staying in touch, accessing services, and finding new opportunities. It’s an essential part of modern life – which is why it’s so important that we tackle digital exclusion.” 

Wayleave agreements usually mean granting network providers permission to enter land to install or maintain telecommunications equipment – such as installing broadband cables in a home. The deal will mean less steps and faster set-ups for tenants. 

Councillor Nick Peel, who leads on digital issues, said: “The aim to connect as many homes as possible is a good one. Tenants need fast broadband to support their work and education, and to access healthcare services and entertainment. The wayleave agreement gives social landlords a way of equipping their properties and enabling it.”

Nick Horne, chief executive at Wythenshawe Community Housing Group, added that ‘ensuring access to digital connectivity’ was a ‘key part’ of ‘raising the quality of social housing’. 

Horne said: “By granting wayleave agreements, we can enable internet service providers to start their work quickly, so connections can be up and running as soon as possible.”

Charlotte Hall, Local Democracy Reporter