Following a local campaign to bring ultra fast broadband to Brighton and Hove, the Chancellor has today announced a £50 million package to allow smaller cities to become ‘super-connected'.

Brighton Pavilion MP Caroline Lucas, who was at the forefront of the campaign, said:

"I am delighted that the Chancellor has recognised our ‘Let Brighton Bid' campaign to secure ultra fast broadband for the city - and I welcome the £50 million promised in the Budget for smaller cities like ours to now bid to become super-connected.

"This a real tribute to the strength of the campaign spearheaded by our pioneering digital community and supported by the Brighton Argus.

"Following my recent meeting with Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt on the issue, I'll now work to ensure that our city is a frontrunner to secure the funding by bringing local digital representatives to Westminster to meet with Ministers. 

"Our digital industries are crucial to the Brighton and Hove economy and if they're to remain competitive for the future, we urgently need ultra fast broadband."

ENDS