A BID to bring superfast broadband to rural parts of Shropshire is gathering speed.

Shropshire Council is bidding for a share of a £530 million government fund earmarked to support the roll-out of superfast broadband to areas that the market alone will not reach.

A website has been set up which explains more about Shropshire’s bid and how the public can join in and help the county secure the funding.

The aim is to have every home and business connected to an affordable broadband service by 2016.

Bidders must demonstrate there is a need for the technology in Shropshire, so a survey has been set up for residents and businesses which asks about current broadband provision and people’s aspirations for future provision.

Councillor Martin Taylor-Smith, cabinet member for IT at Shropshire Council, said it was important that as many people as possible got involved with the survey.

He said: “It’s essential that we show the government just how much desire there is in Shropshire for this technology.

“Improving broadband speeds in rural parts of the county will be a massive benefit to both businesses and residents in those areas.

“I would urge as many people as possible to get involved by filling in this survey on the website, which should be accessible with a dial-up internet connection.

“However, if you are unable to access the website because your internet connection is too slow, please get in touch and we’ll do our best to help.”

Call 01743 252598 or visit the website at www.connectingshropshire.co.uk for more details.