RESIDENTS will benefit from a high-speed internet boost as the council agrees to invests almost half a million pounds to connect dozens of public buildings to the full fibre network.

This follows a successful Greater Manchester bid for £23.8m of government money towards the full fibre network programme.

Although the programme will initially connect public sector sites, the supplier will also be able to offer a high-speed broadband service to local residents and businesses.

Homes and businesses along the route of the full fibre network will be able to benefit from the high-speed broadband.

Aside from the benefits to public services, the move means that Bolton's full fibre coverage will jump from less than one per cent to 25 per cent.

The improved full fibre network is expected to help businesses to grow and improve employment prospects for residents.

It is estimated that the programme will boost Bolton's economy by £168m over the next 15 years.

It will also contribute towards enabling 5G mobile phone coverage.