BUSINESSES and computer users in the Ulverston area will soon be able to tap into high-speed Internet access.

Town centre manager for Ulverston, Jayne Kendall, launched a campaign almost a year ago to persuade British Telecom to install broadband.

She was told by the company that before it would agree to carry out the work to upgrade the exchange in Ulverston there had to be proof there was a demand.

BT said that, to establish a demand, 450 people who lived within three kilometres of Ulverston had to register an interest in using broadband.

On Tuesday, Mrs Kendall received a phone call from BT to say the target had been met and that the broadband service would be available from July 30.

"It is absolutely brilliant news for Ulverston, especially for small businesses as it will save them money. It is already up and running in Barrow and Kendal and we desperately wanted it in Ulverston," said Mrs Kendall.

Broadband not only allows high-speed access to the Internet, registered users will no longer have to dial up to be connected. People will also be able to use the telephone at the same time, instead of having to disconnect it.

Those who will benefit most are small businesses, as it will allow them to do things quicker and save them money in the long run.

Denby and Co Solicitors has to have a permanent Internet connection running between its offices and Barrow and Ulverston.

Office manager Dave Burnham said: "We are very interested in using broadband and not only because of its speed but also because it is cost effective. I had a quote once for broadband and it worked out about a quarter of the price that we pay now."

North West regional director for BT Brian Crouch said: "We are keen to bring broadband to Ulverston. We have been able to recognise what people want and make sure that the project will be cost-effective.

"Small businesses, people who work from home, families and other people who use the Internet will benefit the most.

"Our research in other parts of the country shows that it helps small businesses save money as with broadband they can do things faster and more cost effectively."

BT said the monthly cost of broadband would be between £20 and £30 depending on what package was chosen. To access broadband people will have to register with their service provider.

May 16, 2003 11:00