Elin Jones AM says notspots must be prioritised in Welsh broadband plan

Public funding for Welsh super-fast broadband should first be targeted at existing notspots, according to Plaid Cymru AM Elin Jones.

Ms Jones, who represents the constituency of Ceredigion, stressed the importance of ensuring that communities with poor or non-existent broadband connectivity are upgraded before areas that already receive next-generation speeds.

Speaking to the Tivyside Advertiser, the AM welcomed the Welsh government's goal of ensuring that every home and business across the country is connected to super-fast broadband by the end of 2015.

BT has been chosen by the Welsh Assembly to deliver its broadband plans, which are being supported through £425 million of investment, including £58 million from the Welsh government and £90 million from the European Regional Development Fund.

The government also recently announced £10 million of additional funding for next-generation broadband to be spent over 2014-15.

Ms Jones said she hopes the government instructs BT to make notspot communities a priority.

"I know of many areas - both rural and urban - which are unable to get broadband at present and it's essential that their problems are addressed before speed improvements are introduced in other areas," she commented.