By 2024, it will be possible to access speeds of 100 Mbps on the moon, meaning that over half of all UK properties will be worse off than the moon when it comes to broadband performance.

New analysis from alternative broadband specialists National Broadband has highlighted how advancements in technology are still leaving a large swaths of the UK behind.

For rural broadband, this rings especially true, with those in major cities far less likely to lag behind lunar broadband.

Only 9% of London are unable to access typical broadband speeds of up to 100Mbps, compared to 70% in Wales, the worst performing part of the UK.

Scotland overall is the 5th worst performing region in the UK, with 56% unable to access speeds we’ll soon see on the moon.

Rural villages in Scotland with some of the worst current broadband speeds include Bowmore, Portree, and Achaphubuil.

Over 500,00 UK properties currently have broadband speeds ten times worse than the moon is due to get in 2024.

The fact that rural areas are seven times more likely to be struck with speeds under 10Mbps highlights clear failures within the Government’s levelling up agenda.

And it’s not just outer space – remote areas including the Arctic Circle and Everest Base Camp have better average broadband speeds, with Everest receiving speeds of about 50Mbps.

Further, the UK residents would have better broadband on a promenade with a polar bear, as the Arctic Circle receives speeds of 100Mbps, putting places like Hamilton, Scotland to shame.

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David Hennell, Director at National Broadband commented: “The disparity between digital ‘haves’ and ‘have nots’ in the UK is sadly growing. While the moon is set to gain dizzying broadband speeds of 100Mbps, those in rural areas such as Corsley, Wiltshire and Portree, Scotland to name just two are left struggling with near-unusable broadband speeds of less than 10Mbps.

“And we know that’s just the tip of the iceberg, as there are over 500,000 properties dotted across the UK experiencing the exact same issues. This makes it very clear that just not enough is being done to close the digital divide in this country. At National Broadband we believe that every connection matters and we’re proud to offer alternative broadband solutions and fast and reliable internet connectivity to those who are being left behind.”

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