Northern Lincolnshire could be one of the best-connected places in the UK by 2015 not its broadband bid has passed a government checkpoint that assesses the project’s readiness to complete the procurement process.

The Government undertook a thorough assessment of the project’s governance, funding, contract, consultation, mapping, demand simulation, risks and State Aid before the BDUK Assurance Checkpoint B2 was passed.

Passing this project milestone meant that the Northern Lincolnshire Broadband could issue the final Invitation to Tender which bidders can respond to.

This invitation was issued on 1 March and the project is now on schedule to have a partner in place by this summer. This will be a commercial supplier that will install the broadband network.

Northern Lincolnshire is on track to become one of the best-connected places in the country by 2015, with broadband connections and speeds will be improved for businesses and homes in North Lincolnshire.

Superfast broadband will be available to ensure small businesses can access new markets, keep expenses downs, increase turnover and support the local economy to grow, create more jobs and reduce unemployment.

Coun Liz Redfern, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, says: “This is fantastic news that the superfast broadband project can now progress further. We are well on the way to having a fantastic broadband network in place for 2015.

“It will really make a difference for North Lincolnshire and ensure we are secured firmly on the map as an area that is continually growing and improving. It is essential we provide opportunities for businesses and support the creation of jobs in our area; the broadband project will go a long way in helping with this.

“We are now going out to tender and should have a partner in place by the summer, which will see further developments being made this year.”

To find out more about the project contact the Broadband team on 01724 296926 or email yvonne.thompson@northlincs.gov.uk