Gigabit-capable broadband is being rolled out across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough through a combination of commercial investment by broadband companies and targeted government support through Project Gigabit.
Across the UK, more homes and businesses are now being reached by commercial fibre networks than originally expected. This means Project Gigabit is increasingly focused on connecting the hardest-to-reach areas that would otherwise miss out.
Latest Project Gigabit update (May 2026)
Recent national updates from the UK Government and industry partners CityFibre show that gigabit broadband rollout is continuing across the country, with over 250,000 premises now connected through Project Gigabit contracts.
At the same time, rapid expansion of commercially funded fibre networks means that many areas initially included in government-funded plans are now being built by broadband providers without the need for public subsidy.
As a result, Project Gigabit is evolving to focus public investment on the hardest-to-reach homes and businesses, ensuring that no communities are left behind while delivering value for money for taxpayers.
This national picture is reflected in Cambridgeshire, where both commercial rollout and Project Gigabit delivery are contributing to improved broadband coverage across the county.
What is Project Gigabit?
Project Gigabit is the UK Government’s programme to deliver gigabit-capable broadband (ultrafast, reliable internet) to homes and businesses that are not included in commercial rollout plans.
It is designed to ensure that rural and harder-to-reach communities can access the same high-quality digital connectivity as more urban areas.
How broadband is being rolled out now
Broadband rollout in Cambridgeshire now comes from two main sources:
1. Commercial rollout (no public funding)
Broadband companies such as CityFibre and Openreach are investing their own money to build full fibre networks.
This commercial rollout has expanded rapidly in recent years and is now reaching many areas that were previously expected to need public funding.
2. Project Gigabit (government-funded)
Project Gigabit funding is used where commercial companies are unlikely to build.
This ensures that the most rural and hard-to-reach homes and businesses are not left behind.
It was announced by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology in March 2023 that CityFibre had been awarded the contract to deliver connections in the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough area.
Why plans can change
Plans for broadband rollout are regularly reviewed and updated.
As commercial rollout expands, some areas that were previously included in Project Gigabit contracts may now be served by private investment instead.
This is a positive development, as it means:
– More areas are being connected more quickly
– Public funding can be focused where it is most needed
– Better value is delivered for taxpayers
However, it does mean that rollout plans for some areas may change over time.
Progress in Cambridgeshire
Rollout is already underway across Cambridgeshire.
Thousands of homes and businesses have been connected so far, with work continuing across the county.
We will continue to share updates as Project Gigabit progresses. Please note that figures are updated regularly and may change as data is refined.
What this means for residents and businesses
– You may receive gigabit broadband through a commercial provider instead of Project Gigabit
– Your area may move in or out of scope as plans are updated
– Some of the hardest-to-reach locations will continue to be prioritised through government funding
Our goal is to ensure that as many homes and businesses as possible can access fast, reliable broadband.
Check availability in your area
Because plans can change, the best way to find out what is happening at your property is to check directly with broadband providers.
You can:
– Use broadband availability checkers and comparison websites (see the ‘Check if better broadband is available’ drop down on our Getting better broadband page)
– Contact providers directly – (see our list of active suppliers in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, use a comparison website or visit Ofcom)
We recommend checking regularly for updates.
Further information
Which? has produced a useful guide to the benefits of fibre broadband and regularly reviews the best broadband deals.
For more details on Project Gigabit and broadband rollout in Cambridgeshire, use our postcode checker or sign up for updates with CityFibre. Or check if you can already upgrade to faster broadband by following our getting better broadband steps.
