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Digital Infrastructure in West Berkshire

Overview

West Berkshire benefits from a range of digital infrastructure that supports broadband, mobile coverage, modern telephone services and emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT). Because the district includes both urban and large rural areas, the quality and speed of digital services can vary between locations. Ongoing programmes, including government investment and commercial upgrades, continue to improve connectivity throughout the area.

Key points:

  • around 99% of premises can access superfast broadband
  • over 90% can access gigabit-capable broadband
  • full fibre coverage continues to expand through commercial plans and government programmes
  • work is underway to reduce mobile "not-spots" and improve signal in rural areas
  • support is available for residents who need help with digital access, skills or devices

Fixed broadband

West Berkshire is served by a combination of fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC), which uses fibre to the street cabinet and copper to the home, and fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP), which is full fibre all the way into the building. Full fibre offers the fastest and most reliable connection and is being rolled out across the district by several national providers.

Of the area's 77,633 registered premises:

  • 99.19% can access superfast broadband (30 Mbps or faster)
  • 91.16% have access to gigabit-capable services
  • 80.7% have access to full fibre

Residents can check what speeds and services are available at their property using websites such as ThinkBroadband or the Ofcom broadband checker. If a gigabit service is shown as available but not offered by your preferred provider, it is helpful to register your interest with them, as this can sometimes prompt updates to their records.

 

Project Gigabit

Project Gigabit is the government's programme to bring gigabit-capable broadband to hard-to-reach communities that are not included in commercial full fibre plans. The aim is for 99% of UK premises to have access to gigabit broadband by 2032.

In West Berkshire, Project Gigabit is being delivered through two contracts:

These projects focus on making sure that rural homes and businesses are not left behind as digital services continue to improve. As the work progresses, the areas included may occasionally change based on engineering surveys and planning.

 

Broadband via satellite

Some rural or isolated properties cannot yet connect to full fibre or receive strong mobile coverage. For these locations, modern satellite broadband is a practical alternative. New low-Earth-orbit satellite systems offer much faster speeds and lower delay than older satellite services, making them suitable for everyday use such as streaming, video calls and working from home. Satellite broadband can be used either permanently or as a temporary solution while waiting for fibre upgrades.

 

Broadband via mobile network

Mobile broadband is another option for connecting your home, particularly in areas where fixed broadband is limited. A 4G or 5G home router can provide a stable connection, and many residents also make use of mobile hotspots or wifi calling on their phones.

Residents can check predicted mobile signal at their address using Ofcom's mobile coverage checker. Because mobile performance can vary within streets or villages, it is also useful to check signal quality on different networks if possible.

 

Additional information for residents

PSTN (landline) switch off

The UK's traditional copper landline system, known as the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), is being switched off nationally and replaced with digital phone services. This change is happening because the old copper network is becoming unreliable and is no longer suitable for modern technology.

All phone lines will eventually run over broadband instead of copper. Telephone providers will contact customers directly when it is time to move their service.

Residents should be aware that:

  • landline services will switch to digital by the end of 2025, with full national shutdown in 2027
  • if you rely on your landline during power cuts, your provider must offer a suitable backup solution
  • telecare alarms and similar equipment may need to be checked or updated so they continue to work safely

If you or someone you support uses telecare, you should make your provider aware so they can assist with the transition.

 

Mobile coverage and local improvements

Mobile phone coverage plays an important role in daily life, helping residents access services, stay connected, and use digital tools when out and about. Coverage varies across West Berkshire, particularly in rural villages and areas with challenging landscapes.

The council works with mobile network operators and infrastructure companies to investigate areas with poor coverage, known as mobile not-spots. This includes analysing data, carrying out onsite testing, and working with parish councils and communities to identify suitable locations for new masts or small cell equipment.

 

Digital inclusion

Good connectivity is important, but not everyone is able to use digital services confidently. Some residents may struggle due to the cost of devices or data, low digital skills, language barriers or difficulty using online forms and websites. Digital exclusion can make everyday tasks harder, such as applying for jobs, booking GP appointments, managing finances or staying in touch with family.

Across Berkshire, councils, libraries and community organisations offer support to help residents get online and feel confident using digital tools. This includes free public computers, wifi, device loan schemes, classes, one-to-one help from Digital Champions and access to free or low-cost mobile data through charity programmes.

Digital inclusion work also helps identify local communities most likely to face digital barriers so that support can be targeted effectively.

 

Further help and useful links

Residents can find out more or check their own local service availability using the following:

If you need support understanding your digital options, your provider is usually the best first point of contact.