A superfast broadband network is being rolled out across Wales as part of the Welsh Government’s Superfast Cymru project. But what could it mean for the residents of Neath Port Talbot?
The majority of Neath Port Talbot already has superfast broadband but just how much has the internet changed the local area? Here are 7 ways it has transformed the community:
1. When Neath Male Choir’s tuneful voices arrived on Facebook
Fans can listen to the voices of Neath Male Choir on Facebook as they share their videos and latest news, hear their rendition of Canon Lân and catch up on highlights of their latest trips.
https://www.facebook.com/Neathmalechoir/?fref=ts
2. Discover Margam Park on your mobile!
The interactive guide highlights locations of interest such as Doctor Who filming locations, the pulpit viewpoint, where on a clear day in the valley you can see over to Devon, places of rare deer breeds and fairytale cottages to discover on your adventure around the park.
http://www.margamcountrypark.co.uk/Default.aspx?page=10596
3. When ‘FYI Neath’ launched on twitter
The ‘FYI Neath’ twitter page was launched for the people of Neath to hear about news, events and info about their local community. Established in 2011, the account has gained more than 1,500 followers, ensuring locals are kept up to date with the latest news.
https://twitter.com/FYIneath
4. Fans can keep an eye on Neath RFC’s score from home
Thanks to the rugby club’s Facebook page, Neath RFC fans are now able to keep track of the rugby score from the comfort of their own home. Fans don’t need to worry if they can’t make the match as they can stay up to date with every try and conversion.
https://www.facebook.com/NeathRugbyFootballClub
5. Discovering what’s on via the Visit NPT website
Local residents and tourists can now discover the beauty spots of Neath Port Talbot and check out upcoming events in the area, whether it’s local writing groups or song and rhyme time at Pontardawe library, residents can be sure not to miss a trick.
http://www.visitnpt.co.uk/
6. When ‘Love Neath & Port Talbot’ generated a hefty Facebook following
Facebook page, ‘Love Neath’ continues to bring the community together and keep everyone up to date with the latest events and news in the area from the latest on Neath round table carnival weekend to ghost walks around the area. The Facebook page has gained more than 3,900 likes.
https://www.facebook.com/loveneath/
7. Neath Port Talbot CVS went online to give a helping hand to the community
Neath’s community and voluntary sector has found its home online, promoting local organisations and groups including computer classes, carer sessions and wellbeing workshops around the area. Residents can find out about upcoming events and how to apply for funding for their own projects via the Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/NPTCVS/
Superfast broadband has been made available to the majority of Neath Port Talbot thanks to Superfast Cymru. A partnership between the Welsh Government, BT, UK Government and the European Regional Development Fund, it’s bringing faster broadband to areas which would not otherwise receive it.
With the project now more than 85% complete in Neath Port Talbot, most homes and businesses are able to access superfast broadband.
To find out more about superfast broadband, including information about availability in your area visit the Welsh Government’s dedicated website: www.gov.wales/broadband
Campaign organisers will be working with libraries, schools and community centres in Neath Port Talbot as well as taking their roadshow to Aberafan shopping centre on 31st January and Pontardawe arts centre on 3rd February.
The website also includes information for those not yet able to receive superfast broadband, as support may be available through the Welsh Government’s ‘Access Broadband Cymru’ scheme.
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