Fibre-optic business broadband links 'available to 90% in five years'

The vast majority of the UK could enjoy high-speed fibre-optic business broadband within the next five to six years.

That is the view of BT, which has set out its plans to revolutionise the country's communications technology to prime minister David Cameron.

BT chief executive Ian Livingstone has spoken of the blueprint for broadband excellence, which he wants those in Downing Street to follow.

Mr Cameron and other members of the cabinet yesterday (December 5th) travelled to Adastral Park near Ipswich, Suffolk, where BT's research headquarters are based.

In addition to the firm's presence, the park is home to several other technology companies and research and development facilities.

The BT executive told ministers that they have the potential to give the thumbs up to a complete overhaul of the UK's communications infrastructure.

He suggested that it is entirely realistic for 90 per cent of premises around the nation to have access to high-quality fibre-optic connections within the next five to six years.

This would mean each of those could enjoy internet speeds of roughly 100Mbps on a regular basis.

Mr Livingstone stated: "Super-fast broadband can be a catalyst for economic growth. We have recently recruited a further 800 engineers to help deploy it but it is what it can do for business that is so impressive.

"The Government has been a great supporter in recognising that this type of infrastructure investment can drive the UK's long-term growth."

He went on to note that investment in broadband will be great news for British households, with those in areas that do not currently receive fast connections set to be updated.

V3 recently named BT as its Best Business Internet Provider at its V3 Technology Awards, perhaps underlining the firm's credentials when it comes to top-notch communications – including business broadband – in the UK.