Braintree Council's cabinet has agreed to invest £356,000 to help bring superfast broadband to almost all of the district by 2020.

The money will go towards Essex County Council's Superfast Essex phase four rollout, and will be match-funded by the Government.

Within two-and-a-half years download speeds of 30Mbps should be available for 99 per cent of the district, an additional 1,668 premises and above the county average.

Tom Cunningham, councillor responsible for economic development, said: "I am pleased we are making a major contribution to provide more homes and businesses with better broadband in our district that will make us one of the best connected places in Essex.

"It will enable future economic growth and improve lives with better online access to public services.

"We remain committed to working with Essex County Council to improve the availability of broadband across the district and create an innovative, successful and diverse economy where businesses want to be based.”

The Superfast project has already invested £1.05 million in the district under the first three phases of the project.

Kevin Bentley, deputy leader of Essex County Council, said: "Braintree District Council has always been extremely supportive of the Superfast Essex broadband rollout and it is fantastic news to hear the council has agreed to make this latest investment towards extending superfast coverage even further across Braintree District.

"This funding shows a real commitment from the council to provide access to high-speed broadband to even more residents and businesses and we are grateful for their contribution to the programme.”

Following the cabinet meeting on Monday, the funding will be presented to full council on Monday, June 4, for final approval.