Connecting Devon and Somerset

Frequently asked questions

• What areas are you connecting?

  Please enter your address into our coverage checker to see if we are connecting your area.

• Will my house be connected?

  You can check if your property is included on our coverage checker.

• When will you be connecting my area?

  Our network build commenced in May 2021 and this will carry on through to 2023. Please register your address on our coverage checker to be kept informed about our schedule.

• When can I order broadband?

  You can see if your property is included by using our coverage checker. You will be able to order from us or any participating wholesale provider closer to the time of when we are connecting customers in your area.

• Are you connecting all houses in these locations?

  The Connecting Devon and Somerset programme will connect properties in these areas that can’t access superfast broadband and have a broadband speed of less than 30Mbps. Use our coverage checker to see if your property is eligible under this programme or if we’re able to connect you through other projects in the area.

• Why isn’t my area included?

  We have been contracted to deliver to areas across South Somerset by Connecting Devon and Somerset (CDS). We may be able to connect you through our other community projects – please check on our coverage checker.

  For all homes and businesses in South Somerset without superfast broadband which cannot be connected under this contract, CDS will work with Building Digital UK (BDUK) and the commercial sector to find alternative solutions. For more information click here

• Will you close roads in my village?

  We build our network across fields and farmland, rather than roads, where possible to keep disruption to a minimum. We will work closely with residents, businesses and parish councils to ensure you are kept well informed about any upcoming work in your area.

• What Internet Service Providers (ISPs) can I sign up with?

  The network is an open access wholesale network, which means that any Internet Service Provider (ISP) can offer their services over the network if they wish to. All properties connected will be able to take a Wessex Internet service. As other Internet Service Providers participate in our wholesale programme, we will list their details here.

• How can I get involved?

  We work closely within the local community before during and after each stage of the work. We often work with local Community Champions who help to spread the word of our plans and ensure we address any community concerns. We’re always on the look out for people who want to get involved – so please do get in touch with us at cds.communities@wessexinternet.com

• What happens next?

  We will make contact with landowners, residents and businesses in your area with details of our plans a few months in advance. You can register your interest here, and we advise you to check this website as we will be updating it regularly.

• Will you be using existing phone cables, masts and local exchanges?

  We are building a new full fibre network that is independent of any existing fibre, local exchanges or cabinets. However, we may use existing infrastructure, such as masts and ducts, where suitable.

• Will you be connecting businesses too?

  Yes, business premises are included in the programme as well as residential premises. Use our coverage checker to see if your business or home is included.