Driving Full Fibre Connectivity and Digital Inclusion
In early 2025, Ofcom reported that 74% of UK homes have access to full-fibre broadband, a 5 percentage point increase in six months, reaching 22.5 million premises. Gigabit-capable broadband, which includes full fibre and cable, is available to 86% of UK homes (25.9 million premises). The UK is on track to meet the government's target of 85% gigabit coverage by the end of 2025.
"The roll out of full fibre across the UK is a British infrastructure success story. Four years ago, less than a quarter of UK homes and offices had access, and it now stands at nearly seven in 10. But we do not take this momentum for granted and today, we are setting out how we can work with the sector to finish the job.
It means that people and businesses in nearly all corners of the country will get faster, better broadband, fuelling economic growth and enabling technologies like artificial intelligence to benefit everyone."
- Natalie Black, Ofcom’s Group Director for Networks and Communications
MPs have endorsed Lightning Fibre over the years in line with UK Government’s Gigabit Broadband Commitment. Private investment from companies like Lightning Fibre is essential in achieving the goals, helping to bridge the UK’s digital divide and fuel economic growth.
What MPs have previously said About Lightning Fibre and Digital Connectivity
- Sally-Ann Hart (Hastings and Rye)
“The Government’s manifesto commitment to deliver nationwide gigabit broadband with £5 billion investment, leveraging further private investment by companies such as Lightning Fibre, is fundamental for local connectivity, economic growth, and creating more local jobs and inward investment in our towns.” - Josh Babarinde (Eastbourne)
“Cost plays a key role in achieving digital inclusion for all. The social tariff offered by providers like Lightning Fibre is critical to improving access to fast, affordable broadband. Government and private sector must work together to tackle digital exclusion.” - Nusrat Ghani (Wealden)
“Reliable internet access is essential for households, schools, and businesses. I am campaigning for improvements in broadband provision and reliability to help close the digital divide in Wealden.” - Huw Merriman (Bexhill and Battle)
“The Government’s commitment to nationwide gigabit broadband is supported by private investment from local companies like Lightning Fibre. Stone Cross now benefits from hyper fast full fibre broadband, advancing both economic development and social inclusion.” - Caroline Ansell (Eastbourne and Willingdon)
“Lightning Fibre’s success promotes digital connectivity across our town, ensuring more residents and businesses can benefit from fast broadband.”
Why Full Fibre Broadband and Digital Inclusion Matter
Full fibre broadband networks, like those delivered by Lightning Fibre, offer ultra-fast speeds, enhanced reliability, and future-proof connectivity — essential for modern digital demands. Combined with the Government’s manifesto goals, these networks are key to driving economic growth, improving educational opportunities, and promoting social inclusion by making the internet accessible to all.
Conclusion
Lightning Fibre’s investment and network expansion are vital components of the UK Government’s vision for nationwide gigabit broadband and digital inclusion. Through public-private collaboration, initiatives like this are helping bridge the digital divide and empower communities across the UK to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
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