WORCESTERSHIRE County Council and partners are reopening a broadband survey after initial results showed faster broadband would boost the local economy.

The survey deadline was September 2. Ahead of that date, 4,499 households and 486 businesses registered their demand for faster broadband.

Registrations received ahead of the September deadline will be used in the start of dialogue with potential suppliers.

Of the businesses which have responded so far, 96 per cent (466 businesses) said faster broadband would help their business grow in the next few years. Just under a third of respondents - 32 per cent or 149 businesses - said it would help them create jobs and collectively estimated that an additional 892 new jobs could be created as a result.

Businesses had already said broadband speed was a key consideration for location and slower speeds hold them back.

Conservative councillor Simon Geraghty, the county council's cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, said: "I would urge anyone that hasn't already to demand faster broadband today.

“The more evidence we get helps us to work with suppliers to get the best possible deal and value for money for the taxpayer.”

Conservative councillor David Thain, the council's cabinet member for change and transformation, said: "Faster broadband will enable us to make better use of technology for work, for leisure and for learning.”

Further information, as well as the registration survey, is live on worcestershire.gov.uk/broadband. Hard copies can be picked up in local libraries.