The extra funding will add to the Government’s existing Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme, effectively doubling the amount of financial support that eligible households and businesses with broadband speeds of less than 100 megabits per second (Mbps). Councillor Simon Spencer, cabinet member for highways, transport and infrastructure, said: “A number of Derbyshire communities have already benefitted from the voucher scheme and this new ‘top-up’ funding means more homes and businesses in the hardest to reach locations of Derbyshire can take advantage of the scheme.” “The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted just how important it is to have access to fast and reliable broadband.” He added: “Whether it’s keeping in touch with loved ones or working from home the demand to be digitally connected has increased and this extra investment will further help to bridge the digital divide.” The move means that, providing they are not already in a Government-funded plan for a broadband upgrade, households can apply for up to £3,000 per and businesses up to £7,000. This funding is also in addition to the council’s existing Digital Derbyshire programme – a multi-million pound partnership with UK Government and Openreach – which promises better, faster broadband available to more than 102,000 premises across the county. Digital infrastructure minister, Matt Warman said: “We're committed to levelling up rural communities across the UK with world-class broadband that will improve lives and boost the economy.” “Derbyshire County Council is backing our mission to bring gigabit speed broadband to every corner of the country. I'm urging the county's rural homes and businesses to check our website to see if they’re eligible for a voucher.” To find out more, go to www.gigabitvoucher.culture.gov.uk for a list of approved local suppliers who can then apply for the relevant funding. The deadline for the voucher scheme is March 31, 2021.