Connecting Dorset
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| Connecting Dorset was an innovative project, which brought broadband to rural communities across Dorset through their local Village Halls, Community Centres, Parish Councils and alternative venues for those communities with no communal hall.
The project provided a phone and broadband line, computer hardware and software in addition to a grant towards initial running costs enabling internet access to communities and individuals in rural areas. Funding from the Dorset Rural Renaissance Partnership enabled Dorset Community Action, Dorset Association of Parish and Town Councils and Citizens Online to deliver the project together with support from various agencies including British Telecom. BT supported the project with both funding, management and development support through Citizens Online, a national charity committed to researching and addressing the issues of universal Internet Access and promoting digital inclusion. From the launch in March 2008, 40 community venues were connected to the internet and received a range of computer equipment. 140 Parish Councils also received a laptop and broadband connection where needed. Funding for installations ended in March 2009 and a reduced level of support ended in March 2010. The project has now closed. An evaluation report on the effectiveness of the project be produced in the near future. April 2010 |
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