FIRM CityFibre will complete Bolton's connection to next-generation broadband.

An investment of £37m in the borough's digital future will see nearly every home and business connected to gigabit-capable fibre internet.

Construction of the network was started in July by FibreNation, but the project is now under new management, after CityFibre took over the company.

Stephen Moore will oversee the scheme in an interim role as city manager – ensuring the network is upgraded with minimal disruption to residents.

Cllr Martyn Cox, Bolton Council’s deputy leader, said: “We’re delighted that Bolton’s digital transformation continues apace following CityFibre’s integration of FibreNation and fully support the continuing rollout out the project across the borough.

“This is great news for Bolton as the importance of high-speed broadband has never been clearer.

“With Covid, more companies and their employees are working remotely and there’s rising demand for fast and reliable services not only to drive up productivity but also keep us all entertained and connected at home.”