JULIAN Sturdy MP chaired a packed out public meeting in Askham Bryan last night alongside Superfast West Yorkshire’s programme manager, John Bullivent and Rural West York councillor Chris Steward.

The open meeting gave local residents the opportunity to discuss the recent delays in delivering broadband upgrades around York, which will see roll-out now scheduled for spring.

Following the public meeting, Mr Sturdy said: “The recent delays in delivering vital broadband upgrades to Askham Bryan, Askham Richard and Acaster Malbis were a great blow to residents.

"My position on this is clear – there is no excuse for an urban-rural divide on broadband and villages should not be left behind. Villagers around York should have access to decent internet speeds."

"Sadly this has not been the case for too long. The upgrades have been a long time coming and I share the frustration of residents following the recent delays.

"I therefore organised this public meeting so residents could quiz Superfast West Yorkshire and help rebuild trust and confidence in the broadband roll-out programme.

"Whilst there was understandable disappointment that BT Openreach declined to attend, the meeting was productive and I am pleased to report that I will be meeting with BT Openreach alongside community representatives in the near future to further discuss roll-out plans.

"It is vital that at the meeting we get a clear plan for the delivery of superfast broadband to these villages. There is also a key issue about the lack of communication and lack of accurate facts coming from BT and I will work closely with ward councillors Chris Steward, Ian Gillies and John Galvin to ensure this is rectified”.