Connecting Cumbria Newsletter October 2025
Welcome to the October 2025 edition of the Connecting Cumbria newsletter.
In this issue, we bring you the latest updates on key programmes transforming connectivity across Cumbria and beyond. From the UK Government’s Project Gigabit, rollout to improvements in mobile coverage through the Shared Rural Network and exciting developments through the Borderlands 5G Innovation Region programme, there is plenty happening to boost digital infrastructure in our communities.
We also highlight important information about the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) switch-off and how to access social tariffs which are affordable broadband options for those receiving certain benefits.
Plus, we hear from two local businesses about how improved connectivity is supporting them this autumn, and we encourage both residents and businesses to check their digital connection and thrive, as featured in our latest press release.
If you have any questions regarding online connectivity in your area, then please direct these to the team at info@connectingcumbria.org.uk.
UK Government’s Project Gigabit programme
The UK Government’s Project Gigabit programme is on a mission to bring gigabit-capable broadband to 99% of UK properties by 2032. This goal is being achieved through a mix of commercial investment and public funding.
In Cumbria, the main publicly funded initiative is the regional Project Gigabit contract between Building Digital UK (BDUK) and their supplier Fibrus, who are operating as Hyperfast GB to offer wholesale access to infrastructure deployed using public funding, carrying out works to up to 58,000 properties across Cumbria. Their work is already making a difference, with gigabit-capable broadband continuing to roll out across the county.
As part of Fibrus delivery of Project Gigabit, it has committed to various social value initiatives that will bring wider benefits to local communities. Their Hyperfast Cumbria Connections Fund has already supported more than 30 local causes across Cumbria, ranging from youth groups and busy village halls, to small grassroots projects.
You can find out how one community organisation, the 3rd Wigton Sea Scouts, is benefitting from this support here.
If you are curious to see if your property is included in the rollout, you can find out this, and all the latest updates by visiting the Hyperfast GB website or following the Hyperfast GB Facebook page. It’s the easiest way to stay informed and make sure you’re ready for the benefits of faster, more reliable broadband.
Tucked away in a stunning Lake District valley and accessible only by a single winding track is the rural village of Kentmere, which has fewer than 70 houses. Kentmere might seem an unlikely candidate for cutting-edge connectivity, but this is busy and vibrant community, which includes a number of businesses, visiting theatre events and the high tech Hollingsworth and Vose factory. Since January, residents have been enjoying the benefits of full fibre broadband, thanks to a successful rollout by Fibrus under the Project Gigabit programme. You can find out more about this deployment here.
Commercial Deployment
Did you know that many broadband providers are investing their own funds to bring faster internet to homes and businesses across Cumbria? These commercial deployments - separate from publicly funded projects - are a key part of the UK Government’s ambitious goal to deliver gigabit-capable broadband to 99% of UK properties by 2032.
Here in Cumbria, more than 200,000 properties are expected to benefit from several major commercial programmes which are already underway, with work continuing over the next few years. This growing competition in the broadband market is great news for residents and businesses alike, promising better connectivity and more choice.
If you are wondering which broadband providers are offering enhanced services in your area, the Ofcom broadband checker tool is a great place to start. With several commercial networks now competing across Cumbria, there’s never been a better time to shop around. Whether you're working from home, streaming your favourite shows, or running a business, you can find a package that fits your needs perfectly.
Mobile Connectivity
Mobile Network Operators and Government are working together to transform mobile coverage countywide through the UK Government Shared Rural Network mobile programme.
Since the Shared Rural Network programme began in 2020, an additional 34,000 square kilometres, many of which are in Cumbria, are receiving coverage from all three operators, EE, VMO2 and VodafoneThree.
The Government Shared Rural Network programme recently announced that 81 government-funded mast upgrades as part of the Shared Rural Network were activated by the end of August 2025. Read the full story on this here.
You can check current mobile connectivity, including 5G availability in your area using the Ofcom mobile availability checker here.
Borderlands 5G Innovation Region programme
Exciting things are happening across the Borderlands region through the 5G Innovation Region programme which is bringing advanced wireless infrastructure to some of the UK’s most remote tourist destinations. This will create a platform for long-term growth, improve services for residents, boost the rural tourism economy, and deliver better connectivity where it’s needed most.
As part of this initiative, private 5G networks and innovative use cases are being deployed at the following locations:
- The Crook Inn, Destination Tweed
- Kielder Castle and Observatory
- Stranraer Marina and Loch Ryan
- Windermere Ferry
These upgrades are paving the way for smarter tourism, better local services, and stronger digital infrastructure in areas that have traditionally been hard to reach.
With several elements of the Borderlands 5G Innovation Region programme now in full swing, things are really starting to take shape. The network infrastructure and temporary masts are already in place, and the delivery team is busy working through the final stages of testing to ensure everything runs smoothly.
The initial use cases are being carefully trialled to make sure the technology performs as expected before the full launch. It’s a big step forward in bringing next-generation connectivity to some of the UK’s most beautiful and scenic destinations.
Over in Windermere, the delivery team recently hosted a successful stakeholder event near Ferry Nab. Attendees had the chance to see first-hand how the new 5G technology is being used to enhance connectivity and support public services in this iconic location.
The event was hailed as a great success, offering valuable insights into the programme’s progress and sparking excitement about what’s to come. Keep an eye out for more information and highlights from the event soon!
You can find out more about this programme by visiting the Borderlands 5G Innovation Region programme web page here and following this programme on LinkedIn here.
The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) Switch-Off
The way we make landline phone calls is evolving. Over the next few years, the traditional Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) which has powered landlines for decades is being phased out; this process is already in progress with many lines already transferred. The PSTN is old, energy inefficient, increasingly expensive to maintain, and no longer fit for purpose.
Moving from the PSTN to digital networks will help ensure that home phone services remain reliable and up to date. This transition is part of a nationwide upgrade to digital voice services.
If you use assistive technology, such as fall alarms or other telecare devices, it’s especially important to contact your service provider to understand how the switch may affect you.
For more detailed information, the following are helpful resources:
Social Tariffs
Did you know that if you are receiving benefits like Universal Credit or Pension Credit, you might be eligible for a cheaper broadband or phone package? These are known as social tariffs, though some providers may call them ‘essential’ or ‘basic’ broadband tariffs.
Social tariffs work just like regular packages, you get the same service, just at a lower price. They’re designed to help make staying connected more affordable for those who need it most.
If you think you might qualify, it’s worth checking with your provider to see what options are available.
You can find out more about social tariffs here.
Autumn Opportunities: Check Your Digital Connection and Thrive
As autumn arrives, Connecting Cumbria, working on behalf of Cumberland Council and Westmorland and Furness Council, are encouraging residents and businesses to explore digital upgrades as connectivity improves across the county through public and commercial investment.
Read the full story here.
Stephney Farm Pumpkin Patch
In the heart of the west Cumbrian countryside, on the outskirts of the village of Calder Bridge near Seascale, you will find Stephney Farm, a family run farm who for the third-year running will be opening up their diversification project, a pumpkin picking experience like no other.
Previous years have been a massive hit with customers from near and far and this year is anticipated to be bigger and better than ever with pumpkins galore, Halloween themed crafting, inflatable bouncy castles and rides and the opportunity to meet the animals on the farm.
The event will be supported by a coffee and snack barn, outdoor food vendors and this year the family are excited to announce live entertainment at each and every session with three different local collaborations included with your ticket from Flip Entertainment, Stu-Di-Doo and Pet Encounters meet and greet.
We caught up with Kate who alongside her partner Ian and the rest of the family are preparing to open their pumpkin patch, to talk about how online connectivity is supporting their event and much more behind the scenes.
Read the full story here.
Nature Makers Cumbria South
Nature Makers Cumbria South provide mindful art, craft and play experiences designed to nurture natural wellbeing. They champion the belief that creativity and connection with nature are powerful, lifelong tools for personal and collective wellness. Through thoughtfully curated classes, workshops and community gatherings, Nature Makers fosters creative expression, sustainable and compassionate stewardship, inclusive and accessible experiences and a lifelong journey of learning and growth — all rooted in the power of nature.
As she prepares for a vibrant season of autumnal events, we caught up with Eleanor Chetwynd-Knagg, the Nature Makers provider for South Cumbria, to explore how digital connectivity is complementing the natural world, helping her business and everyone it touches, to truly flourish.
Read the full story here.
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If you would like to see any specific topics covered in future editions of the Connecting Cumbria newsletter, or if you have any queries regarding connectivity in your area then please forward these to the team at info@connectingcumbria.org.uk
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