In recent months, a number of families across the Aldershot Garrison have brought to Leo's attention the poor-quality broadband connectivity in some Service Families Accommodation (SFA).
Leo Docherty MP said: "This current situation is clearly unacceptable – and I have been working over recent months, despite the challenging circumstances of the pandemic, to move matters forward as quickly as possible.
"Your insight will be invaluable to help measure the impact poor internet connectivity is having on local families, as I am acutely aware that the pandemic has further highlighted the problems caused by poor connections on your ability to work from home, undertake remote learning, and keep in touch with loved ones."
Latest update - Wednesday 20th January 2021
"Through my initial enquiries, it became clear that the provision of internet connections across SFA is not a responsibility of the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO). Instead, it is for individual broadband providers – subject to the appropriate funding – to improve the broadband network. As they too have received a number of concerns, I subsequently met with Garrison Commander, Lt Col Paddy Baines and a representative of the Army Families Federation to agree a way forward.
"In September 2020, I approached Openreach to establish what new infrastructure and funding would be required to upgrade the existing copper network (ADSL) so that families could enjoy faster and more reliable broadband. I received confirmation just before Christmas that, after a comprehensive assessment, one option would be for affected properties to form a Community Fibre Partnership – and I am currently awaiting further details and costings. This would bring Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) broadband to the area and download speeds of up to 1 Gbps.
"I will endeavour to keep you up-to-date and will publish regular developments here."