The final 15%: Why reaching every home with gigabit broadband matters 

The UK government has quietly pushed back its target for nationwide gigabit-capable broadband coverage from 2030 to 2032.

While some progress has been made – 86% of homes now have gigabit-capable broadband – this two-year delay signals a deeper challenge in reaching the remaining homes, many in harder-to-reach areas. 

Digital connectivity is no longer a luxury; it is necessary infrastructure. From remote work and education to health and AI-driven services, the demand for fast, reliable internet is surging. Leaving anyone behind without access to good connections risks deepening the digital divide and leaving regions at a disadvantage – missing out on inward investment, innovation and productivity gains. 

A large part of the challenge lies in public understanding of digital infrastructure. Our latest report, Connecting Today for Tomorrow, which surveyed 108 MPs reveals a troubling disconnect:  while nearly 90% of MPs agree that good connectivity boosts productivity and economic growth, only 33% believe their constituents understand the link between connectivity and the infrastructure required to deliver it. Meanwhile, 44% say their constituents often raise connectivity difficulties including broadband with them. This lack of public understanding can fuel opposition to infrastructure projects and slow down rollouts. 

A higher proportion of MPs in Wales and the Midlands responded that constituents raised connectivity issues with them, while in London, MPs reported less frequency. This highlights the local nature of the roll out, and the generally higher levels of connectivity in large cities. But it also underscores a missed opportunity: regions with lower connectivity risk being overlooked by investors, despite their potential.  

The Autumn Budget offers a critical lever to change this trajectory. The Chancellor’s announcement of historic fiscal devolution – including £13 billion of integrated settlements for seven Mayoral Strategic Authorities and the option for mayors to introduce visitor levies – marks a turning point. These powers give local leaders unprecedented flexibility to align funding with growth priorities, a key opportunity to embed digital infrastructure into local growth strategies. 

Appointing ‘digital placemakers’ should be a priority for local authorities looking to strengthen their digital capabilities. These are strategic roles coordinate stakeholders, streamline planning for fibre and 5G and embed gigabit rollout into regeneration frameworks. Yet, with only 42% of local authorities currently employing dedicated digital roles, government funding and clearer mandates are essential to scale up efforts nationwide. 

Some regions are already setting the pace. Mayor Andy Burnham and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s Digital Blueprint demonstrates how strong regional leadership can accelerate progress. Similarly, the Swansea Bay City Deal has appointed eight Digital Champions across four local authorities, playing a pivotal role in a £1.3 billion investment programme. These strategies capitalise on opportunities to accelerate economic growth and exceed in key sectors including energy and life science.  

Planning reform is another critical lever. The Infrastructure Strategy and Planning and Infrastructure Bill propose welcome changes, but implementation must be swift. Ahead of the copper switch-off in 2027, councils should launch local campaigns to build public awareness of why digital infrastructure matters. Embedding gigabit roll-out into planning frameworks and championing regional digital strategies will help turn connectivity into a driver of regional success, unlocking jobs, attracting businesses and boosting inclusive growth.  

As the UK positions itself for a future shaped by AI, data-driven services and global competition, universal gigabit connectivity must be treated as critical infrastructure. The delay to 2032 should not be a retreat, but a rallying cry.  

The Government is focused on restoring public finances while driving economic growth and fairness, so local authorities have a critical window to make the case for digital connectivity as a growth enabler. With the right policies, investment and local leadership, we can ensure that every home is connected to opportunity.