With shorter days and more challenging weather conditions, Connecting Cumbria is underscoring the critical importance of dependable digital connectivity in fostering resilience throughout the county. Fast and reliable broadband and mobile services have become fundamental to daily life, supporting everything from accessing essential services and staying in touch with loved ones to enabling local businesses, farming operations, remote working, education, and emergency communications.
Cumbria is now experiencing some of the strongest rural connectivity in the UK, allowing residents and businesses to increasingly leverage digital services that aid in preparing for and responding to seasonal challenges. This includes receiving weather alerts, accessing online healthcare appointments, remotely monitoring livestock, managing tourism and hospitality businesses, facilitating home working during adverse weather, and maintaining connections during power outages and travel disruptions.
With nearly 97 per cent of premises able to access superfast broadband, over 87 per cent benefiting from gigabit-capable speeds, and more than 99 per cent of properties covered by outdoor 4G from at least one provider, Connecting Cumbria urges everyone to review their connectivity options this autumn. The initiative aims to ensure individuals and businesses are maximising the services now available county-wide.
Councillor Peter Thornton, Digital Champion for Westmorland and Furness Council, stated, "Digital connectivity is no longer simply about accessing the internet; it is a key part of how our communities, businesses and public services remain resilient throughout the year. As we move into the autumn and winter months, having access to reliable broadband and mobile services can help people stay informed, connected and supported when they need it most. We have seen significant investment in Cumbria's digital infrastructure in recent years, and we want residents and businesses to ensure they are benefiting from the opportunities available."
Echoing this sentiment, Councillor Chris Southward, Cumberland Council’s Digital Champion, added, "From family farms and rural enterprises to town centre businesses and households, digital connectivity underpins so many aspects of modern life. It supports economic growth, improves access to services and helps communities respond effectively during periods of disruption. As technology continues to develop, ensuring people are connected remains an important part of strengthening resilience across Cumbria."
Residents are encouraged not to assume their connectivity options remain unchanged from the previous year. Taking a few minutes to check available services for homes or businesses can ensure they are making the most of Cumbria's expanding digital infrastructure.
