Super-fast broadband will solve household bandwidth issues.

Telecoms regulator Ofcom has given companies the go-ahead for the development of a super-fast broadband infrastructure.

The media watchdog has today (3 March) revealed a series of measures set to open up competition in the broadband market and encourage the development of next generation broadband.

The new super-fast broadband will deliver speeds of up to ten times the level of broadband today. It will enable multiple users in the same location to use high-bandwidth services simultaneously.

Ed Richards, Ofcom Chief Executive, said: “Super-fast broadband represents one of the most important developments in modern communications for many decades.”

Ofcom believes the faster broadband will be of great benefit to both households and businesses.

Mr Richards continued: “Our message today is clear: there are no regulatory barriers in the way of investment in super-fast broadband; we want to promote investment but also ensure that there is fair and effective competition for the future.”

Virgin Media and BT have both announced plans to invest in the development of super-fast broadband. BT aims to proceed with a £1.5 billion investment plan into making super-fast broadband available to 40% of the homes in Britain by 2012.

In the statement, Ofcom said: “Recent announcements of investment and planned investment, including Virgin Media’s launch of 50Mbps service, are very positive for consumers.”

Ofcom believes the move will generate more investment, innovation and choice for consumers. The media regulator will continue to play a pivotal role in the future development of next generation broadband.