On this page, we will keep you up to date with any news as it comes along. If you have signed up, we will email you with any updates.
22nd Feb 2010
Oops, been a while since I updated this, been so busy with installations, PC repairs and odds n sods!! Anyway an update for you. About 95% of the village is now on, what an achievement to us all!!! Its been such a long journey with so many ups and downs but its no way finished, not only do we need to get the more remote farms on, we have to bolster the signal to some of the outlying farms and businesses such as kimber, crowden, gorhuish and of course Ashbury.
This isn't easy as to get the signal out we need to buy kit and non of this is cheap with each femto costing enormous amounts of money but now we have started getting revenue, we have to decide what we are going to do the problem is do we spend money on increasing the speed.. or do we spend money increasing the area covered we cannot do both at the same time. The more people we connect the slower the speeds are for all but the more people we connect, the more revenue we get to pay for faster speeds but everyone needs a quality of service that they can rely on, so we are in talks at the mo in sorting this out, in the interim I might pay for bits of kit that might help on a short term basis but I'm not well off so its just one step at a time.
I'm afraid my PC repair business has had to take a bit of a back seat while I am sorting out broadband, I simply cannot keep up with both as running the network is more or less a 24 hour business (if I wake up in the middle of the night I turn the PC on to check all is well!) The laptop is on the bedside table for this reason so those who need PC repair may want to contact Luke Matthews in Gorhuish (haven't got his number to hand but if you need it email me and will forward it for you) He does charge for his services. Will let you know in a few weeks if we can resume the PC clean ups for a tenna when I have a bit more time.
The Network on the whole is running fine, a few have experianced problems with the units on the houses roaming off because of other users unsecured wireless routers. We do have to remind you that if you are a customer and own a router, it has to be secured for the simple reason of a) your own security b) Your Next door might steal your bandwidth that YOU are paying for and c) It is part of the contract if you need help with this let me know and will email you a how to.
Have had a lot of interest from other communities wanting this sort of setup which I am keen to help (for a fee) but the problem is these folks are villages like ours and need this service I do feel guilty about charging a consultancy but we all need to make a living but how can you charge in a fair way? I'll never be a businessman.... or rich! lol
All in all, things are going great guns.. getting an average speed of about 1.4 Meg up and down and once we go to 4 meg we should be around 3 Meg for all.
Finally, if you never signed up for broadband but now want the service, you have 2 options.
If you live near a base station and can pick up the signal from your laptop or wireless device, you won't need an antenna on your house and as such it is free connection and £18 month.
If you do need an antenna, these are £150, with a £50 connection fee and £18 a month.
If you buy kit yourself and install it yourself, than you only pay the £18 month with no connection or install fees. We can help you choose the right sort but as a rule as long as its 2.4 Ghz and strong enough, you can get on.
Also, if you want another username these are also £18 a month just email me at northlewbroadband@googlemail.com with what you want the username to be and will set it up that day.
This week is a busy week with doing a couple in Crowden, Tarpaflex and the Johns garage street We are also doing a wireless survey in Woodland barton, Scobchester and Norley.
Have a great week all.
Chris
4th January 2010
Happy new year! I'm now back from Family visits and the usual new year hangovers! So have resumed building the network up.
We had a few problems today as some of you noticed the network went down, however, I have now installed a backup and a remote reboot which can be done outside rather than having to go through the config plugged into the server, anyway thanks for the heads up folks, we will be working on increasing the speed and also running a backup network so that any fallover will result only in reduced speeds rather than collapse. More to come on that one.
I'm now working on getting Ashbury and Gorhuish online along with resolving the issues on Harpers hill and around such as Tarpaflex this week.
Also, for those connected, I'm afraid I am about to issue your first bill.. I know, don't hate me! The broadband should of been billed in advance but with the problems we had experianced it was unfair to issue an invoice so close to xmas on something that didn't work as it should, now things should be stable and the speed should shortly be going up.
Thank you to all the gamers! not often I say that! but your understanding in keeping to after midnight has really helped us make a service that everyone can use, your defo on my xmas card list! (I didn't actually have time to send any this year so really sorry to you all .. no time)
Now we have broadband, feel free to add me on facebook folks, my email is broadband@blackberry.orange.co.uk so you can chat to me on there if you need me or want technical help as it has a live chat function. Signup is free to those who don't have it at http://www.facebook.com
Well, it's getting late so I'm off to bed, can I just say to any of you who read this tonight, there is a severe weather warning that has been issued by the met office of heavy snow tuesday afternoon, into wednesday, please drive carefully and of course be prepaired! I am going shopping tomorrow if anyone needs naything if you can't get out, let me know before 10am if you can. Mind you as with everything that comes out of the metoffice.. we may have sunshine with nothingm ore than heatstroke! wouldn't surprise me!
Chris
27th December
Doesn't Christmas go so fast!
Back in Northlew, clutch has totally had it on the car now and the speedometer is doing some crazy things! (said I was doing 110 while actually I was about 40?) new car looming!
Anyhoo, did a few connections today and so pleased so many of you followed my email instructions to get online although I have now managed to do about 60 connections before Christmas eve so most of you could get on and talk to your famalies etc so halfway now.
I'm in Birmingham for new year and back on the 2nd January so will continue to get as many of you on as we can. We still have to buy some new kit for gorhuish and ashbury may be on before new year, although there maybe something I can do to give them a temporary connection. Also, Tarpaflex, the garage and the few houses up that way have a poor signal due to a problem with one of the units which I will try to sort out tomorrow and get them connected. Crowden should be January.
One thing has become apparent is that 2 meg is too slow for what most people want to use it for such as the gamers and skype etc, so we will be increasing the signal to 10 Meg in January all going well subject to Directors financial meeting.
I have spoke to many of you about online gaming as this currently should be blocked, for the mean time PS3 and Xbox gaming is prohibited during the hours of 7:01 am and 11:59pm as this slows the whole network down as we need the 10 meg to allow this, this is quite serious so we have to insist until the upgrade, we may have to restrict services of those who do not comply as this is for the good of everyone, nothing personal (i'm a gamer myself!)
New usernames will be handed out over the coming weeks once contract and standing orders have been processed, then the generec username testone will be deleted, there will be a pay as you go option for those without the service but this works out quite expensive but is good in an emergency.
Right, just off for some wine and listem to TOPTP and thankfully have just heard Rage against the machine is at number 2! wooo whooo
If I don't manage to update this, happy new year to you all!
Chris
24th December
Christmas eve already! I can't believe how long this has taken and how there simply is not enough hours in the day!
Anyway I am so pleased to say... BROADBAND IS LIVE! I did some final tweaks on the server this morning and most of you will be able to pick it up, even if you haven't got the antenna connected yet (if your pc or laptop has wifi) Can I just say thanks to everyone for being so patient (Is that how you spell it? hmm) this has been such a long journey with so many pit holes to fall in and at the end of it I now don't believe anything any company tells me but through pressure we have all managed to show the world that Northlew doesn't understand the word... NO or can't.. well done to us all!
Anyway I now have a couple of days off to chill out, drove to Birmingham yesterday to drop prezzies off and it started to snow so drove to my sisters in Wales in that roppy car of mine.. can't believe it made it! lol anyway I do want to say I wish you all the merriest of Christmas's and may your new year be full of wealth, health and happyness.
Merry Christmas all.
15th December
Nothing ever goes to plan!
I cannot believe that anything... and I mean anything I have done to get this off the ground has been met with problems here is a brief list over the last few weeks.
Road Closure isn't scheduled until March
Cable cannot be installed until february
Once road dug and cable in after much emailing to DCC and BT directors, Cisco router doesnt work.
After staying up till 4am trying to configure said router, BT tell me it's an engineer visit only... why not do that when they put the damn cable in! Muppets!
Cisco router now configured, now wireless link from chapel to church doesn't work.
New wifi link installed and wifi now on the square
Now non of the home units work, they haven't been configured correctly by the company we purchased them off! I really am hacked off! They didn't know how to fix them either.
It only took me two hours to find out what was up with them but I have to visit every house to configure them P***** off
2 Femto antennas are back to front so not sending out a signal on 2.4 Ghz
some of the home units are not picking up a great signal due to how they were put up, the more I do this project the more I realised I should of done all of this on my own! you know what they say.. if you want a job doing right.... do it.....
Rant over!
Chris
9th December.
Guys, something that is becoming apparent, we don't have enough cable to make the ethernet patch leads from the junction box to your pc, if you ever ordered BT broadband or have an old router there will be a Cat 5 ethernet cable with that, or they sell them in Asda, Tesco for £2 I can make them but they are about 15 mins per cable so struggling with time, if you are shopping and can pick one up for yourself then can get you on, on switch on day.
Also if you want a wireless router, either I can get you one for £45 or you can buy them from PC world, argos etc, you are looking for a cable ethernet router.. not a modem it will have 5 RJ45 sockets on the back instead of 4 and a phone connection. If not, the antenna will serve one fixed pc by cable.
Done a few cable ends today, thanks so much to Libby and bugs for lending me their ladder!!! and john for lending his drill after 2 drills had flat batteries.
Going to stay in bed till 10am tomorrow! then will do the rest of the meadows cable ends and a few in the orchard and station road if I have time.
Hope you have all seen the road closure signs up on Crowden, I was pretty excited by that :o)
Have a great evening all.
Chris
8th December
Come hell and high water....
The guys at Devon County Council are nothing short than heros, working over the weekend to ensure the people that matter got the road closure notice sorted, following a meeting on the square this morning, I can confirm...
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984
SECTION 14
THE COUNTY OF DEVON
CROWDEN ROAD, NORTHLEW
TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF THROUGH TRAFFIC
DEVON COUNTY COUNCIL hereby give NOTICE that:
From MONDAY 14 DECEMBER 2009
To WEDNESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2009
both dates inclusive, between the hours of 09:30 and 15:15
No person shall cause or permit any vehicle to proceed on the sections of Affected Roads
except for access to land or premises on or adjacent to those length of roads.
Roads affected -
CROWDEN ROAD, NORTHLEW , JUNCTION WITH QUEEN STREET TO THE
METHODIST CHURCH
The alternative, signed, route for vehicles will be via -
FROM QUEEN STREET TO STATION ROAD AND VICE VERSA
This temporary restriction is considered necessary to enable -
UTILITY WORKS ON BEHALF OF BRITISH TELECOM
Contact telephone number: CARILLION-TELENT 0117 978 8802
Dated: TUESDAY 8 DECEMBER 2009
There has been so many people getting that sorted from the chief executive to workers in planning so will list them all in the coming days.
I know there are quite a few of you around 80 who still have not had the antenna connected (there is still 20 without the antenna) who I am getting round as we speak, the weather has been so bad, we are only getting around 5 done a day but this is due to improve over the rest of this week.
So this is it.. at last.... will keep you updated as to the work next week on crowden road.
Thanks guys.
Chris
5th December..
Well the course of love never runs smoothly ...so they say, broadband could fit that saying nicely! On an upnote, met Chris Moyles today in Okehampton Shell! made my day that did, anyway, back to Broadband...
As most of you are aware, we had some issues with BT and Devon County council in relation to putting in the back haul (the actual broadband line) on Crowden road I won't go into too much details, but BT were quoting January and Devon CC where quoting March.. neither of which was a viable option for us.
I then contacted the CEO of BT Michael Rake, and also Dan Moss who I have worked with before for the original survey and he is doing all he can to help us once the council agree the road closure.
I also contacted every Director, executive and anyone else I could think of at Devon County Council and West Devon Borough Council where there has been a flurry of activity by the people that matter and they are trying to help on Monday.
I won't at this point list there names etc but once this has been approved I will make sure they recieve due credit for their work on here and with the BBC, media etc.
On another note, most of the antenna's are up, I just need to pop round and put the ends on but as you can tell there is over 150 of these to do and its just me on my own doing them as they have to be right for them to work, so please have patients (hope thats how you spell it!)
Most of the base stations are now operational and some of you have already reported good signal strengths, the rest of the femto's will be going up this next week on:
Harpers Hill
Ashbury
Higher Gorhuish
We may need some panel dishes for Higher Gorhuish but will signal test when Ashbury is live.
Finally, we have had quite a few new people wanting to signup, now I have to make this Crystall clear to you all as this is important.
We only recieved funding for 130 units, no more, this was the exact number of people who signed up as requested through 2008/2009, I made it very clear that if people didn't sign up when asked to do so, they would have to pay for the units themselves (you can buy them second hand and off Ebay) as funding is very accurate, we will of course connect for free, however, no amount of shouting, demanding getting all annoyed at me or the other directors will change the fact that we are not a business where you can negotiate a deal, we had funding, we spent the funding...end of story and I am far too stressed already with the amount of work I have to do to get us all online to deal with customers annoyed that they never read the paper, saw the huge sign up on the square, listened to the radio, read the card we put through everybodies letterbox or looked at the huge sign that John had written in the pub.. all about the need to register to get broadband! So, if you didn't sign up and want it, no problem just try and be nice about it... we all know your needs and we want to help as I have the ethos of broadband for all, everyone is entitled to it but you will have to wait until we can afford to discount new units once we get revenue from the main stream customers or buy your own units, we haven't actually worked out how much it will cost new users, but will be around £100 for installation rather than the discounted £50 all other signups paid.. more to come on that.
So, we are nearly here once the backhaul is in on Crowden road there may be a few days of a chaotic open network while the bandwidth server and billing platform is installed but rest assured I am doing my best to get this to you all by Christmas, especially for the kids who do most of their revision during this period ...and of course xmas shopping!
Will be in touch soon guys as things happen.
Chris
15th November 2009
The units have arrived ---- HALLALUAH!!......
We have bigun calling you all to arrange installation as this will now begin tomorrow, I know there has been a gap in whats going on but rest assured we have been quite busy.
We have now installed the steel frame on the tower and installed the base station and back haul antenna on the church and chapel. We have take ownership of the femto cells which will also be going up this week. Thanks to all those who helped errect the antenna and frame on the church ands thanks to yellans for constructing it at such short notice!
Can I also say a big thank you to Tarpaflex who donated £600 to the broadband project, this was unexpected and very very welcome and shows their generosity within the community!
Last week, we still had a problem with BT as they had delayed the installation of the back haul cable from crowden road to the chapel, with an estimated date of 3 months! we have now decided to do the work ourselves by hiring a contractor to dig the whole so BT can put the cable in it which will turn the whole system on, which we are working to this week but will have a clearer picture this week, all of this certainly is a learning curve!
We have around 30 units spare so anyone who hasn;t signed up and wants broadband installed this week... ring me on 01409 221429 so you don't miss out!
We have LA aerials starting work tomorrow at 8:30am and the cable man starting on tuesday to ensure the cables are tidy and in your homes.
As you are aware there is a £50 installation fee payable on the day of install, cheque is ok but it is split amongst the two companies so cash is always better.
Nearly there now guys... very excited!
Speak soon
Chris
29th September 2009
Well, we are almost there... yes yes, I know I keep saying that but we are.. I do keep pulling out what little hair I have left but hey ho... being bald might suit me!
Loads of problems this week, from BT now saying they need photos of the chapel so they know where to put the kit into.. to me finding out that there was no ethernet cables included in the CPE's.. Everything is now in hand thanks to Gaurav over at Horesbridge who has been a total star... even when I have been short with him (under statement poor guy!) but in all, we are now at the point of no return.. we sent off our purchase order and we got the invoice back from them this week so the kit has been ordered.
John and I had a walk around the site to ensure everything has been covered and touch wood.. we haven't left anything out (other than the electricity meters for the church which we are buying this week) John and I went up the tower to measure cable length and I can honestly say I have never been so scared in my whole life.. my legs are still shaking! I can certainly see why the pope kisses the ground when he lands in a plane! Anyway....
Spoke to Les at LA Aerials this morning for a catch up and he is ready to go, his even putting other business to one side just to insure that this job gets priority and sorted asap, that's one guy who is on my xmas card list this year! Time is obviously ticking but as guarav says there is no point hurrying if it doesn't work, everything has to be tested.. even the CPE's had to be checked out for you all in Germany.. 2Km of cable in Singapore and the base stations all means we have the dogs whatsits here! .. if it doesn't work.. I'm moving house!
As some of you are aware, my main job is fixing and building computers, lots of you have contacted me with PC faults, slow computers etc and as such in preperation to us going live, I have agreed to do a PC Cleanup and health check for a flat fee of £10, if you click on the link above under offer, should tell you a bit more about it and a way of contacting me if you require this service.
Hopefully should be taking deliever of the CPE's this week, have agreed to drop one off to Les so he can check the weight and hole sizes but can I say, if you have difficult walls (Hollow or cob etc) can you let me know as will need specialist screws to fix the unit to your home. (no extra cost)
As below, Ken managed to get 6 computers from LEAF.. all of which have no monitors, keyboards, mice or power leads... PLEASE.. if any of you have any old kit up in your lofts etc that you can spare us please help so we can put these computers to some use!
Also, any computer equipment that you don't need or want thats just taking up room, please help by donating it. Please feel free to use the contact me form above or call me on 01409 221429.
Can I also say, those who ordered BT internet and got a home hub they don't want.. don't throw them out as might be able to configure it for you to use as a relay to make your home wireless.. still looking into the config side of things there but it looks possible, and a great way to use free kit!
Finally, I have had quite a few people contact me wanting the service who never signed up for it for whatever reason. Obviously as the campaign went forward from last year I did try to make it clear that we cannot fund new installs post funding as we don't have the cash to buy the kit, this doesn't mean we can't help as I have the ethos of broadband for EVERYONE, but we are going through a couple of options that might help these folks to reduce the cost of install as for most who didn't sign up prior to funding it can cost around £250 to buy the equipment and install it. but if you know of anyone who isn't currently part of this project, please feel free to give them my email northlewbroadband@googlemail.com or my home number 01409 221429 where I will do my best to help them.
Thats it for about now.. anhother late night again and too many cakes ( French fancies in sainsbury are just £1) I'm going to be the size of a small country soon!
Have a great week
Chris
18th September 2009
To say this has been a journey is such an under estimate... but we are now reaching the end with some fantastic news for you...
Friday was a day and a half, everything came at me all at once, it started with a telephone call from John Maguire advising that the planning permission for the Church was being signed off as we spoke after approval which is fantastic news and a reflection of John Maguires hard work! (His like a dog with a bone!) Then I found out that after the meeting between Ken Meron, John Maguire and LEaf, SOuth Hams district council had agreed to fund the project.. in advance! which was a real worry as non of us had the £50,000 upfront to finance the project (Lots of sleepless night!) again well done to Ken and John!!!!
After I told this to Gaurav, he ordered all of our kit after I sent him a purchase order and he is ready to begin installation this coming Wednesday! .. You could of knocked me off my chair with a feather!
Gaurav and his team are travelling down and spending 3 days with us, while Hans, is flying in from Germany! (If anyone has a history of where Germansweek get's it's name from Hans would love to hear about it!)
Once the main base stations are set up, we should be in a position to install the subscriber units on your homes by LA Aerials, this is about a week away and will need further discussion with them to ensure they are free during this period.
I also spoke to BT regarding the leased line and they are signing off the order on Monday so Openreach can start work on Crowdon.
We have also been given 6 computers from Leaf, I massive thank you to them for that! more to come on what we will do with them after the hard drives have been cleaned up.
So thats about where we are, will type this up into an email later but quite of few of you it seems have virus's on your computers so i'm quite busy... but be carefull what you are opening as most of them seem to be coming through obscure yahoo accounts.
Finally, I have 90 northlew.net email addresses if anyone whants one, let me know.
Can I also say what a great night it was at the murder mystery evening last night, the food was great, along with the show and company, Well done to all of those who took part, after a bottle of wine I was somewhat wasted (I don't really drink!) but still had such a fabtastic time!
Anyway, have a great weekend guys... and roll on next week... the start of broadband!
Now secured an offer with BT for electronic signature contracts for the project meaning we don't have to print out approx - 1350 sheets of paper!
Have re-opened subscribtions for the spare 30 lines we have available.
Have begun work on the new subscriber account portal, this will be coming soon .
16th August 2009
Hi Guys. Well coming to the end of our journey now we have almost everything in place to install broadband apart from the leased line. We had a survey carried out and are still awaiting the outcome of this from BT, we did have to re site the main line into the village which will go on the exisitng microwave telecom pole down crowden road and then trunk it via underground T duct work to the point of presence. As you can see, its somewhat fiddly trying to negotiate with them as the work itself is quite complex and we have little room to move at this point.
On an upnote I had a voice message left from Devon County Council asking for our bank details to pay £1,000 into thanks to Councillor James McInnes! So will pass those onto them on monday and my thanks as always to James for his continued support actually the guy is a star!
As for Belstone I have some news for you all..... Belstone no longer requires broadband, The good news is that BT have agreed to supply it partially due to our campaign which is great news, for those residents in Belstone broadband will/should be available by Xmas, the planning application has been submitted to the parish clerk and work will begin in the autumn. Below is their email to me.
Sorry in a dash.
Anne
__________________
I am unable to copy in Sarah Blacksell, but please would you be so kind to forward this on to her?
I am the Openreach planner responsible for the work to recover the ‘line concentrator’ from Belstone.
This will involve laying an underground duct from Tongue End along the lane to Belstone Cross; during the laying of this the lane will have to be closed, but access to any properties in this lane will be maintained. A cable will then be drawn into the existing duct from the Telephone Exchange to Tongue End, then through the new duct to Belstone Cross. This will allow the recovery of the line concentrator and provide an improved service to those customers.
Openreach provide the network for other Service Providers such as Sky, Talk Talk, Tiscali and BT. The customers in Belstone that are served from Sticklepath exchange will be able to get Broadband, but the actual speed of their service will of course depend on their distance from the exchange and may depend upon the service provider.
The timescale of this work is dependant on many factors, not always within the control of Openreach, but the dates that we are aiming for are completion of duct laying by the end of November 2009 and the provision of the new cable and associated re arrangements as early as possible following this but at the latest March 2010.
I hope that this answers you’re your query regarding Broadband for Belstone.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if there are any other questions.
Martin Chappell.
_______
Re: planning application SA159152; installation of underground duct and cabling between Tongue End and Belstone Cross
Dear Martin Chappell,
Following our recent telephone conversation, to ensure I have understood you correctly, please could you confirm the following:
· Openreach will be installing cabling (for BT) in order to remove the need for concentrators for telephone lines in Belstone.
· This will mean that all households within Belstone parish will then be able to get broadband.
· That this should be achieved by March 2010 (possibly before).
Please could you also confirm
· That the exchange at Sticklepath will be able to cope with this.
Currently about 1/3 of the households that want broadband can’t get it. As I mentioned on the phone, we are currently pursuing possible alternative expensive technology.
We need to know whether Openreach/BT’s plans are definite and have this confirmed, so we know how to progress.
I would very much appreciate the confirmation that all Belstone households will be able to get broadband following this work. It will be most welcomed!
Would it be possible to notify the parish council as well? (Sarah Blacksell. E-mail above, is the Parish Clerk).
Many thanks,
Anne White
Belmonte
19th July 2009
I have now spoken to Dan at BT who has been in discussions with his Sales Director regarding bandwidth and has managed to agree a 2 Meg circuit with an upgraded 34 Meg pipe which should mean faster speeds for all. We had a discussion last week regarding 2 leased lines rather than the 1 which again should mean a more robust network with a multi point to Belstone. We are now at the stage of survey which we came unstuck as no one actually knew the postcode to the church! This has now been resolved and we order that on monday.
I have been in talks with Horsebridge(Radwin) who are very excited about our plans and are helping us create the right type of architecture for the villages which should mean far less technical problems down the line. Hopefully shortly we will be in a position to order the kit.
Craig and Gaurav have managed to loan a base station from the supplier which will measure the width and length of signal and of course strength to see where the dips are. We are just waiting to hear back as to when.
The key now is speed and setting this up with as least fuss as possible in the shortest possible timescale.
At our last meeting we had agreed the following after a number of questions from villagers.
The monthly subscription will be £17.99 per month.
The installation fee will be £50 in line with virgins install costs meaning we will subsadise it by £131 (total cost would of been £181)
The contract length will be 36 months, this is due to the length of contract we have had to sign up to with BT, However, you can transfer your contract to someone else in the village or a new owner or tenant if you move.
We agreed that any surplus is either returned back to the community through rebates or reductions or ther ways the village sees fit or upgrades of the network to help more rural farms etc. This will be an ongoing process to allow our network to be future proof.
Hopefully next week we will start the subscriber surveys to see the type of kit you want and the direction your home points in so we can install any equipment quickly.
I am also starting work on the village portal service for this site which I will keep hidden for now as going to take a bit of fixing to iron out the bugs before we go live.
At the last meeting I had favoured a staggered aproach to installation in phases but the concensus is we install ASAP to everyone so going forward will see how the architecture comes back as, and install along the same lines.
Also, had a call from the Okehampton Times, so we might be in the paper this next week.
I think thats about it for now.. off to plan what to have for tea.
Chris
8th July 2009
The waiting is over! We have been successful in our proposal to LEAF for funding and have been awarded 72% of the total cost of installation, this is fantastic news and I am sure you like me have cause to celebrate! (Actually I nearly cried! lol)
Leaf met and liked our proposal although there are some conditions within the agreement that we have to follow such as making a white paper for other communities to follow and also that a third of any surplus is reinvested into other projects so they too can have a future. I am sure you will agree, this is a small price to pay for us having a connection.
Now the fun starts, there are a few things we need to do now to ensure the signal will get to your homes, this will involve a survey done in Israel by the supplier of the equipment Radwin. The mapping software they have is state of the art and they will be able to see the 'not spots' so we can work with them in getting the signal to those areas.
Also, I will shortly be calling at every house to do a residential survey. All this is, is to see where the antenna is going to be fitted and any requirements you may have such as fixed or wifi network in your home or business and other information that the installation company LA Aerials may need on the day.
There will be an installation charge of £50 per subscriber, this is to make up the 28% shortfall, we have already raised over £3,000 which has gone to this also to keep prices low and in line with other installation companies like Virgin.
The monthly cost has not been fixed yet but will be lower than £20 a month and as a guide, should be around £17.99 per month. although this needs to be confirmed first as could be cheaper.
The funding we will get is in arreas also, meaning we have to pay for the kit first and get refunded on invoice, so we are just looking at the best way of doing that and should be decided in our next meeting on Tuesday.
All in all, well done to you all, through your pasionate fundraising, your focus in getting this done, we have shown the world that Northlew will not take NO for an answer and how by working together, we can do anything!
Be in touch soon folks.
Chris
2nd July 2009
Well guys, there isn't much to write now as it is just a waiting game to here back from LEAF about the funding. However, did get a call from LG Aerials who are now LA aerials and are very excited to start working for us to get all the antennas up. Also, had a call from Craig Newton who works for a company that sells the equipment that will go on the church and homes and he wants to hold a meeting next week which will be great as we might be able to negotiate better equipment and he has a wealth of experiance with the MOD and Vodafone.
Thats about it now... it's been a bit of a journey and quite a rocky road but hopefully at the end of it now. We have the BBC and other media waiting to report on us which is great but to be honest will be happy when it's all sorted and I can slip back into obscurity :o)
As soon as I hear any news back, I will be contacting you all by phone or sms to tell you the news.. so sit back, hold tight and for the love of everything.... KEEP EVERYTHING CROSSED!
Chris
16th June 2009 - Copy of Newsletter.
Hi Guys.
First and foremost, my apologies for not updating you sooner, we are
in a bit of a quite period while we wait to hear back from the Greater
Dartmoor Fund and so we cannot move forward until we have the go ahead
with the most important aspect.... the funding.
However, saying that, we had forwarded the initial proposal last month
which was accepted by the LEAF project as we met their criteria for
help under a number of aspects. They then asked us for a more in depth
study including Budgets and cashflows which also have been sent on to
them. Finally, they came back asking us for the copies of the quotes,
these also have been sent. We have now ticked every box and dotted
every 'i' and ae on target to obtain 72% of the total funded needed
for the project... almost £40,000!
We have now registered the directors of the interest company at
companies house in London and set up our account.
You may be aware of todays news report on Lord Carters Digital Britain
report. I had been asked to submit a report to them which I duly did
two months ago and am disappointed to learn that although every
household in the UK will have to pay an extra 50p a month on their
landline rental, 'MOST' people will get fast broadband within 3
years.. the key there is MOST... NOT ALL.. which according to the CEO
of BT Ian Livingstone, we will NEVER be able to get it due to lack of
infrastructure and distance from the exchange, so ultimately, we will
have to pay extra... never to get conventional broadband in return...
hardly fare!... so yet again... another whitewash. Still with our
system and further talks with BT premium regarding the leased line and
bandwidth today, we WILL be the FASTEST private community network...
in the country! Not a bad thing really!... I'm too polite to say where
Lord Carter can put his white paper!
We are now at the end of this rocky road.. it is just a waiting game
now to get the final Yes, so hang in there and remember that although
we have been a little quite, we haven't stopped working on the
project.. in fact far from it (I was working on the finances with Ken
until midnight last week!) and believe me, I need my beauty sleep!
Which draws me to the point of fundraising.. As you know we are over
£2000 raised so far with your help through the fate and the curry
night. As per my previous newsletter, we have another exciting evening
for you this Saturday... CHILLI NIGHT!
As you remember for those who came along to the curry night how
fantastic it was, Julia and her lady's group have organised a night of
Mexican food, with some pretty amazing puds! for a fantastic price of
just £7.50 per head This includes
Cheesy Nachos with Salsa as a starter
Chilli for main (including Vegetarian)
Sumptuous puddings for desert.
There are two sittings - 6:30 and 8pm
This will be held in the Dragon, so don't miss it, even you guys over
at Belstone come visit us!! we have some real talent here in Northlew
with cooking skills and I am pleased to announce, I won't be cooking!
(many of you would of heard my smoke alarm going off!!!!)
You can either turn up on the night and take your chances or email me
your request and I will forward them to julia and John Maquire. (Not
sure if I can give out his number)
Remember, everything we raise goes towards YOUR installation costs, we
don't make a penny from this, including the volunteers who spend their
day cooking, so please.... no... PLEASE... come along, our village
needs you.. YES YOU! and hell, just take a look at whats on TV this
saturday..... i.e. nothing!
Once again, my thanks goes to all of you and the people that help to
make these functions so amazing and the heard work they put into them.
Thank you all!
May I also remind you for those that don't know, we now have our very
own Vinyard! Eastcott Farm Vinery on the Northlew - Hatherleigh road,
we popped in for a bottle of Rose last week and had a sample and it is
GORGEOUS! had to buy a bottle and to be honest think it will be a
regular thing!!! Richard even showed us round, quite amazing, still,
we have been making Wine here in Devon since Roman times, it's good to
see this trade coming back to life!
If you have an hour spare, nip down and take a look and have a sample,
Hilary and Richard welcomes visitors and I can gurantee you won't be
dissapointed! ... will go down well after a chilli!
Finally, there may be new people who have subscribed to the project
but have not been included on this mailing, if you can forward this
newsletter to everyone who is in your local address book... you would
be on my Christmas card list, I don't need to tell you how important
this is so that we all reap the rewards of super fast broadband....
for all.
Have a great week all.
Chris Marson.
Northlew & Belstone Community Broadband
24th May 2009
I just have to say a MASSIVE thank you to EVERYONE that took part in the Northlew broadband Graden Fate and especially Julia Oxenbury and her ladies for coming up with the idea and all the hard work that was put into making it a special day for everyone, while I couldn't attend as I was working I have heard all about it and how much fun was had by all. Now, for the important bit....... You all managed to raise a STAGGERING..........
£1530!!!!!
I think in all of this, you have all shown what a community is! combine this £1530 with the £750 we raised at the curry night and we are half way there for free installation!
Anyway, I know I haven't updated this as regular as previous, but we are currently in this no mans phase of waiting to hear about the funding, so until we get an answer we are stuck in limbo and cannot move forward. However, as a bit of a run down,
John has managed to sort out the planning on the church and we are pleased to say we have the go ahead for that which is central to the project, Many thanks to Stuart the Vicar, John and of course the church!
Ken and Julia have sorted the application which we are now waiting to hear from, they managed to go over all my REALLY bad mistakes!
Ian and Rachel have been a guiding light in the minefield that is the project!
So all in all, we are now in the final phase of the start of the project, once we have the money, we will start installation. Over the next couple of weeks, I will be doing a survey of the landscape and your homes to ensure we don't need extra kit for those who have signed up, don't worry, I won't be calling at your home, just taking some readings to ensure you will get a signal and plotting the results on a map, so if you see someone looking a bit lost and in a world of his own... that will be me!
Well thats about it for tonight in the words of one of my favorite 80's bands... Bon Jovi.........
Keep the faith... broadband is just around the corner!
10th May 2009
Well Matt Woodley from BBC radio Devon came out tonight and interviewed me and I must say what a nice fella he is! totally put my mind at rest as was very nervous although as with these sort of things there is always so much more I wish I would of said now he has gone, sods law.. when mentioning the government I think I said 'balmy' a bit too often ... oops... Still, its going to be aired on Tuesday and wednesdays breakfast show as part of a bigger topic so have a listen although I won't as hate the sound of my own voice as do most of us I think. Still, it got our plight out there and will tell the rest of Devon and part of Cornwall, that those who suffer the same issues that we do, that they are not alone, that we will try to provide broadband for all, to show BT, this government and the rest of the UK that we have a voice and while the country is falling apart, a community together can do anything we put our minds too.
Remember the fund raising Garden party is on for the 23rd May (It's a Saturday) bring the family, lots of fun and Julia has arranged alot of Marquees in case it rains. Equally, if you have anything cool for the tombola or some quality womens clothes for the precious stall, please email me as Julia would love you fovever!!!
Julia also states that they are planning a Mexican night so watch this space.
Anyway, thats it for tonight.
More to come
Chris
8th May 2009
Well since the last newsletter, we have again moved forward with a bit more news for you. First and foremost, the application has been submitted to the greater Dartmoor Fund for 72% funding, we do have to find the extra 28% ourselves but have various match funding from other avenues. which leads me to an email I got the other night from Sarsen housing.
Some of you may be aware, that I rent a home from Sarsens in Kimberlands, Sarsens is a housing association that provides affordable housing for those who need it, I am forever greatful for the village and of course Sarsen's for giving me this home but I wrote to them in March as they are a community Landlord and I am pleased to say they would like to invest in us, we are early doors right now in discussions but will let you know how they propose to help, it's great news.
Also, Ian richards emailed me this morning to say BBC's Radio Devon had been in touch wanting an interview for their breakfast show on Tuesday. I have had a chat with Matt Woodley about it and he is going to do an interview over the weekend for it which will let the county know what we have gone through and how we propose to sort the problem out... as a community.
I also have a telephone meeting tomorrow with a broadband company tomorrow who has offered help in design, Tech support and revenue collection which will be great news if they get on board with us as we will can learn from their existing projects.
Finally, don't forget the Garden party on Saturday 23rd May at the old vicarage (Next to the church) Will include details in the next newsletter but it's not to be missed! lots of fun for the whole family and of course all money raised comes off your broadband installation costs and goes to the 28% needed in match funding.
Hope you have a great weekend all.
Chris
21st April 2009
Have now uploaded the text part of the proposal which can be found using the tabs above. This is part of the submission sent to West Devon Borough Council and for those who want to read more, it's worth a read.
You should of now had a leaflet about the curry night this Satuday (25th) which states:
Curry Night At The Green Dragon, Saturday 25th April 6.00pm Onwards.
(two sittings - at 6.00pm and 8.00pm)
A choice of homemade curry (Including Vegetarian), rice, naan, dahl, poppadums and relishes
Phone 220060 or 221973 to book a table and time or take your chance on the night.
Raising money to bring high speed Broadband to Northlew at as low a cost as possible to householders.
To avoid dissapointment book early!!!.. actually just typing this out is making me hungry! Seriously those mouthwatering spices and smells... oooo.. I'm going to have to look in the cupboard and see what I can eat now!
I have also sent out a newsletter to everyone to keep them in the loop with what has been going on as there has been some changes over the last couple of weeks with regards the best way forward and the most cost effective way of installing this service. We are pleased to say the proposal has now been sent off and we are now ready to install it, once we have the funding. So VERY exciting times!
Anyway, copy of newsletter below:
Chris
21st April (Copy of Email Newsletter)
Hey all.
Well, it's time for another update regarding Broadband for Northlew & Belstone. Lots have been going on behind the scenes and I’m pleased to say, we have now submitted the application for the Greater Dartmoor Fund (Through LEAF) along with a financial forecast and business case with many thanks to Jon Maguire, Julia Oxenbury, Ian Richards and Ken Meron who have worked tirelessly in ensuring the proposal ticks every box and looks a professional document . Their energy, vision and experience has been an inspiration in completing this fundamental part of the project. We have also received massive support from both communities and offers of help from all angles which is more than we could of ever hoped for. So thanks to all!
We have now amended the old Northlew Broadband company to reflect the new directors which are myself, John, Ken, Julia (also secretary) and Ian, we have also set up a bank account to cover any payments both in and out in the name of Northlew Community Broadband. This was essential in ensuring we met with legislation and was able to apply
for the funding.
Ian also went to the Parish Council meeting and asked for a donation of £200 to cover the planning proposal for the church tower, where the equipment will be installed. We are pleased to say they agreed as they are just as excited about the project and we have their full backing, along with Councilor McInnes and Geoffrey Cox MP.
John Maguire has been sorting out the planning proposal for the church and has been helped by Stuart the Vicar who is 110% behind the project. I understand further photos have to be taken, but I have left that to Sean, John and Stuart to do on account I am far to frightened to go up that tower! Power to them!
We have also received feedback from West Devon Borough Council who stated there needs to be local investment (i.e. we have to pay for a proportion of installation) as we have applied for 80% of the cost. We have thought long and hard about this as we want the project to be as cheap as possible for everyone. Any charges will be set at the same rate as Virgins network installation which is £50 and if such charge arises, won't be payable until the day your equipment is installed.
However, to offset any charges, we have organised some fantastic fund raising events for the village. The first being a curry night in the pub, (Eat in or takeaway!!!) On 25th April 2009 All prepared by village renowned chiefs! For a tasty way to start the weekend. So don't forget to buy yours this Saturday evening!
The second is a garden party in the old vicarage on the 23rd May with Stalls, Bar (Real Ale), Games, Hog Roast, cream teas Pink Fiz wine, cakes and of course strawberries and cream! There will even be a punch and Judy show (perhaps even with real people as the puppets?) but will be a fun packed day for all ages! Although if you turn up too late, I may of eaten all the cakes! So keep your diaries free and bring the whole family!
We have other events in the pipeline over the coming weeks which will keep us all entertained in the name of progress! If there is something you feel will raise money for the project, get in touch, it would be good to hear from you. Equally, if the company you work for feels they would like to get involved with any donations etc, Please get in touch, don't forget donations are tax deductable!
As you can see, we are almost there. There is a slight change to the actual network. We originally said the speeds would be 2Mb/s and 10M/bs this has now changed to 2M/bs and a MASSIVE 34M/bs which is obviously three times faster than our original proposal…. Which will also be for the same cost! We have also found local companies who will run and manage the network meaning better service levels for everyone!
We are on target with our timescales and should be ready to install in all homes by August (funding dependent) we will obviously keep you updated with the exciting news. This has been a learning curve for us all, but I know personally I would like to thank you all so much for such enthusiasm and support in helping us realise this vision.
Again, don’t forget, if you know people who haven’t signed up, they have till the 11th May to take advantage of the subsidised equipment, after that date, it will cost £180 for the kit as we would of secured funding by this point.
I hope to see you all at the curry night and garden party and share some of the excitement around this great project.
Hope you all have a great week and are enjoying this sunshine!!!
Speak soon
Chris
31st March
Started the film today which for my first attempt at filming didn't turn out all that bad...! However, my tripod is a mini one, just 4 inches high (its for my camera) so any panning makes it somewhat ..wobbly.. Anyone who has a tripod they could lend for a week or so, please give me a call on 01409 221429 or email from this site. Should still be ok though as now worked out how it works and where to improve. Hopefully, should have something watchable by the end of this week.
More to come
Chris
30th March
Julia came round with her camcorder she is lending me to do the Northlew Broadband video, which I add I am not looking forward to in anyway as with the lack of camera shy people who came forward (i.e. no one) it looks like I am going to be the face of Northlew.... God help us! my face usually scares pensioners and small children and babies!.. Actually, I went round to give a really nice lady some computer lessons today, down the meadows and even though I live in the next street, 4 fantastic, friendly, folks stopped me to see if they could help as I looked a tad lost, but clearly I think I looked a little bit ...doggy... being in such a nice street with a face like mine lol .. still they where such a laugh when they realised I hadn't took the ladys name or her address in which to give lessons too! Its been a tough weekend.. what can I say! Although, I have asked a couple of youth in the village if they would help out as it gives us an edge and they may come up with some funky ideas...
Graham over at Belstone has sent a case study over which is the final bit of the proposal which I am sending off on Friday.. along with this video..... I do have some ideas as to its content and although its going to be a bit of a rush job, I don't want it to look like it is.. now email me if this sounds daft ok... but at the end of the video.. would queens, we are the champions with me burning a BT bill be too corny? .. even though this is a serious video.. I really dont fancy making it so they all fall asleep while watching it? I don't know... any advice.. help... etc ring me on 01409 221429!!! come on... be a star.. your village needs you!!!
Well tomorrow, will go over the proposal a last time until I put it to everyone at the next meeting on Wednesday.. and make a start on this video.
More to come
Chris
28th March
Today, Garry from Redraw came to visit and do a brief survey of Belstone. I've never been and when Graham said it had a lot of tree's... he wasn't kidding!!! My idea of chop the buggers down didn't go down to well lol Anyway, the topography of Belstone is very different to that of Northlew, with high ridges and deep valleys all set amongst orchards and tree lined streets. Sounds idyllic but it will always be a struggle to get a signal through trees, especially during the summer months when they are full of leaves.
No that being said, I spoke to Garry of Redraw and he says its not going to be a problem, esecially thanks to Graham he has a better idea of the topography of the landscape. He is going to run some mapping software and see what is covered and what needs extra support to get 100% coverage.
As it has been a few days since I last updated this blog, we are now at the final stages of planning. Graham has organised a meeting tonight (sorry to those that I couldn't stay as had a job on this evening) where they are pulling together their case studies so we can include them in the final proposal this week. Also, we will be making a short film next week to include in the presentation to the council.... any victims.. o I mean people... who would like to be the face of Northlew with a story to tell, please get in touch!!! The video camera will be on loan thanks to Julia.
Northlews planning side is now resolved, we know what needs to go where and how, Belstone is the last bit of the jigsaw (I must add, those who I met today where very helpfull, thanks so much for letting us plod over your land!!)
Also had a call from the village hall (sorry buddy I forgot you name as I came off the phone!.. but will make a note next time we speak) who kindly offered his services any way he could offer which was fantastic, he also mentioned how when the network is up and running we should not forget the village hall in our plans, especially with the life long eliment of all this. I advised that I would be looking to set up some classes with the free pc's we will be getting for people who struggle with IT, but we won't forget the hall.. it will be very much in my thoughts, with future projects for the community.
Anyhoo, just burning dinner again.. for anyone who shops in waitrose.. they are doing 2 meals for a tenna.. including beer!!! it is curry mind.. but it tastes jolly nice!!!
More to come folks
Chris
23rd March
Well, last week, I thought I would email Ian Livingstone and Dan Moss at BT again... just one last try to see if they would be interested in supplying us with a wireless option.. had an email back from Dan today and to be honest, at worst it was misleading and at best.. misleading and clearly senior managements attempts to investigate, ends with standard responses to governmental targets, the long and short of it was; Due to financial restrictions, Northlew will NEVER have broadband
To quote Dan Moss..
"You may be aware that in July 2007 BT announced proposals to invest £1.5 billion in the Next Generation Access (NGA) network to deliver super fast broadband speeds of up to 100Mbps to 10 million homes (40% of the UK) by 2012..... as a business we must ensure that these cost factors are also addressedwith the deployment of fibre mentioned above.
I sent him a response back with details of current projects currently being undertaken by BT with wireless microwave through BT wholesale such as Northern Ireland and the Highlands of scotland.. not to mention the hundreds of commercial business' that use BT backhauling and point to point infrastructure. It is clear from BT's response that they haven't investigated the issue at all, and historic surveys carried out by BT were a work of fiction as shown in them advising they needed to lay 6.8kms of high gauge cable, when such cable has already been laid between Hatherleigh and Rutleigh just 2 months ago..1km short of our village.. moreover, new 100 pair high gauge cable was laid in Crowden road in October 2008, which conflicts with their own 'investigation'
Personally, historically, I have never had a problem with BT and worked with Ben Verwayen (Last CEO) to bring broadband to my last village I lived in; who seemed to care about last mile issues and DACS based problems. Clearly the current management team only want this investment to cover urban networks where installation costs are low for high volume takeups, rather than assisting 100% coverage of the population. £1.5 Billion investment would provide that 100% coverage throughout the UK without the need for fibre optic cable that would still give 100 meg service.. but instead.. if you don't live in London, Manchester or Birmingham.. you are...... to coin a phrase... screwed!
Anyway, that is the last contact I will have with BT, as it is a waste of my time and energy but still thought it was worth the time non the less, I am now working on moving my phone service to another supplier, as a personal statement at my anger with this dreadful company.
Anyway, rant over there.. I have been in touch with Redraw who will be installing the new network (without BT's help) and he is drawing up the official quote to go with the proposal to the council next week. I also sent an email over to Belstone advising thati f they want to be part of the network, we need people to sign up for it.. as so far think I was on 5 households which would mean it wasn't a commercial option for Redraw, tonight I think I am on about 11.. still need quite a few more if we are to get any funding for installation to help them but looking better.
Anyway, my other half has got an abscess on their tooth, so have been doing a lot of nursing this weekend so not much news, such a shame we are both so scared of the dentist! but will crack on more this week with the conversion of the proposal to PDF to put on here in the corporate investment section.
Thats all tonight folks
Chris
22nd March
Have now completed Version 2 of the proposal and also the application form for Objective B for the 'Greater Dartmoor Fund' have asked if Rachel can do a cover for it as I am a bit pants where design is concerned. This will be reviewed at the next meeting to see if anything extra can be added: I have included the business case and proposal from Julia along with all the case studies members of the public sent me via email, letter and telephone. We really need to have this sent off by the end of next week.
I have also got rid of the forum, sorry to the few that signed up for it as to be honest, the server I was using it from was sooooo slow and clearly as everyone is on dialup, most people could not get to it... I even struggled and my current server doesn't have any php extensions on it... what can I say.. I'm cheap.. lol it did seem a waste of the bandwidth with only 20% of registrants signing up to it so although not deleted, I have hidden it away for now until things are a bit closer to completion and we convert the site into a community portal for residents and subscribers. Then will code our own forum on the current server and pay for a bit more bandwidth.
In its place, I am going to add a corporate section for investors which will lay out the plan with technical specifications and business model which is already part of the current proposal I have completed but makes sense if we can add this online so that everyone can look at it, and agencies such as the council (lors) can see the model and understand what we are doing... and of course why.
Have been kept in the loop from over at Belstone which is now buzzing with emails to and fro from people that want to join up to it; although I have stressed to them, they HAVE to sign up on here and not just talk about it and they only have till the end of next week to do so to be part of the funding model for each subscriber... so lots of pushing there.
Well, we all need to keep our fingers crossed with regards to for the 'Greater Dartmoor Fund' I'm hoping that what we have done so far is enough to convince them to give us the money.. I did say to the comittee if it came back no.. I really don't know how I can carry on living here, my business is on its knees (So if you need your PC fixed get in touch!!!! lol) seriously, I am small time, I don't know how bigger companies within the Parish manage and only hope that things get better for them once this is running as things are hard enough for everyone as it is. although must say I fixed Toms clock today.. so business is picking up! lol
Anyway.. positive things and we are almost there.. so again... more to come.
Chris
20th March
Just had an email from Simon who works for environment agency who states:
He works 25kms from Launceston and commutes each way, his employer
encourages flexi time and if he could work from home twice a week, the
following calculation would apply:
Thats nearly 5000km saved each year, his car emits 115g/km of C02 so
over a year her could make a gross saving of approx 575kg of C02 ..
half a ton of green house gas per homeworker.....
This is really important and we will use it as an example in our proposal, equally, if you could work from home but cannot due to broadband, let me know so I can include you in the statistics.
Thanks Simon.
20th March - cont
Just had an email from Councillor McInnes who asked for my input on an email he has recieved from The Commission for Rural Communities is in the process of rural proofing Lord Carter's recent Digital Britain report. I obviously outlined what we are doing but was quite shocked at what I found as I investigated the 2001 census (1% growth since then) As a brief idea...
There are 592 people in the Parish, 448 of which are between 16 and 74
There are 261 dwellings within the parish.
Out of 295 people who work, 130 work from home.
There are 80 Children between the ages of 5 and 15
There are 112 people past retirement age.
There are 105 people with long term illness'
There are 23 households without any mode of transport.
There are 243 people without any formal qualifications.
Therefore, in terms of internet connectivity
130 Need it to work from home.
80 Children need it for inclusion within the national curriculum
112 people could use it to avoid social exclusion
105 people could use it to avoid social exclusion
23 (60 people) do not have access to any mode of transport.
243 people could use life long learning to improve their 0 qualifications.
As an average, that is 100% of the village would make some use of the
internet through business, education or vocation.
Quite clearly, those statistics show a real need from broadband, but as a reflection of other rural economies, shows in fact how desperate we all are for 100% broadband coverage within the UK, and not just investment into faster urban networks. equality, that is the key...
Anyway, while I am limited on what I can say on this blog at the mo, there is a lot going on behind the scenes, and we are almost ready to put in our proposal to West Devon Borough council, hopefully within the next week: I have also been working on backup plans as this is a 1 time oppertunity, we cannot afford for anything to go wrong.
I would also like to say a big welcome to all those who have registered over at Belstone.
More to come this week..
Chris
More to come...
18th March
Had an email off Sharron, over at Belstone who runs their counterpart for a campaign for Broadband, she has explained to me their plight and I have emailed her asking for their residents to register via this website: This will be for the funding aspect as part of the proposal to West Devon Borough Council if enough people over their want the survice as the construction phase is quite simple in enlarging our network and will be a crutial part of us getting the finance to construct ours.
In view of this, I have been in contact with Dartmoor National Park for their input within the project as it has become apparent that we will may need a relay point on the hill above Belstone to feed the signal down into the village: this could just be on a house, but it is important that everyone who needs to know.. is involved and has a say. Equally, around Dartmoor, there are other communities that cannot connect, at a later date we could expand the network to encompass them which would mean our broadband overall is cheaper for everyone.
It is key to note though, our main aim is to get Northlew online, this is our only focus but as the construction costs are only 4% extra, the work involved is very small and thus it costs us nothing in terms of time to include them and resolve their issues. Besides, they are our neighbours!
I have also downloaded the planning application from West Devon borough Council for construction of the antenna on the church and I must say it is very daunting, they need everything not just in triplicate.. but 4 copies of everything! Plus a map of the local area and housing surveys of the surrounding homes which I don't mind sorting out but will take time as will have to get the village plans which I think are in Exeter and photocopy, along with photographs, opinions, needs and compound that with the fact the church is listed is going to be a bit of a headache, but will crack on with this over the coming days. I always knew the most difficult part of this project was going to be the red tape side of things but am prepaired and ready to face it head on.
I have had a good response from those who want to set up a comittee, I have decided not to stand for any role within it's function as think my direction should just be spent on doing what I am doing now, where the comittee will keep the focus on what we should be doing and the best ways of reaching our goal and I will continue to contact and research everything we need to get online.. I know we will compliment each other in getting toward our target. As some of you who have already met me, I do get quite nervous in any sort of public speaking role... always think I have a radio face.. rather than a face to face ;o) so will be more than happy in the shadows.
All in all, quite a bit of info there for today in whats been going on, tomorrow I will continue in trying to change the PDF application, into a doc format so we won't have to hand write it and perhaps finish the presentation if I have enough time.
Chris
18th March - cont
Email to redraw for offical quote sent.
It has become apparent we need to reactivate the Broadband community interest company and set up an official commitee. Have emailed Ian, Julia and Ken to discuss this.
18th March - cont
Had a response back from Tim at WDBC who says:
"You will see that there is a good fit with Objective B, which is described on page32 of the pdf file (page 30 of the strategy). From our discussion it sounds to me that a pilot project trying out the technology in Northlew, and linking through the "bridge" to Belstone, would be a strong contender for funds. It would demonstrate how the project could be applied to other areas. I am sure that WDBC would support the project with a financial contribution from its community projects fund."
He has enclosed a copy of the proposal for the 'Greater Dartmoor Fund' which I will try to complete today and send out review later on to all those who are interested in the finance side of things. Unlike the National lottery, there isn't a long wait on this; what is key is that our proposal is water tight and fully demonstrates the need of not just us, but others around us with the same problem. He did state however that we will have to invest in it ourselves as well; which may mean charging for installation of around £100 per home, this will generate £10,000 of capital to invest into the project and would mean we only have to ask for £37,000 + Vat + £3,000 for Belstone.
I have emailed Redraw, asking for an official quote on headed paper, rather than just email quotes and breakdown so I can include this in the proposal to WDBC as again, everything is going to have to be water tight.
17th March
Have today been in touch with Tim Beavan at West Devon Borough Council, who has a rather large pot of cash to give away right now thanks to European funding: Moreover, after looking at the critera, Northlew Broadband is totally suited!
He is sending over the application and has also asked if we need seed funding for surveys, planning proposals etc which I have advised we do (£185 to pay the church etc) Once it arrives, I will read over it and see what is required, he has reinforced the need for a quality proposal, or business plan, a video as well will go along way in explaining how everything works and why we need it, so again, anyone who has a Camcorder they can spare for a few afternoons: Let me know.
I also got back an email from Robin & Edwina Hill over at Belstone who are quite excited that we might be able to help their village: I have spoke to Tim Beavan again regarding the funding aspect of it and he too can see the bigger picture in providing broadband right accross Devon with us as a model for other construction projects. I advised that if we can set up Northlew and Belstone at the same time; this would show how easiliy the system can be manipulated to cover anywhere. He agreed.
The timing is now just right to move forward with any applications but again, we need to be focused on the goal; this means we need a clear and strategic plan of action; which I will work on this week and also every edge we can find to ensure once we apply for this funding which goes to a panel, we can show why we need it and who is effected by its absence.
16th March
Have sent an email to Belstone community web; asking if they would like to join our network as we are at the construction/funding stage as suggested by Councillor McInnes. This would enforce my own personal ethos of broadband for all and of course help with fuding and rental costs as there would be more subscribers. Adding another community is only 4% of the overall construction costs but would mean the monthly line rental would be cheaper for everyone and the funding could be split 50/50 through grant application and capital costs... so will keep you updated if we get any response back.
16th March - cont.
This evening, we where asked to present a proposal to the parish council and explain our current plan of providing broadband to Northlew through a public meeting.
It went really well, with lots of constructive questions in how we should move ahead. Councillor McInnes was in attendance and suggested I contact a Mr Beaven at the council who was aware of our proposal.. and also has just been awarded a cash pot for project such as ours. While due to the proximity of the next election, Councillor McInnes cannot get involved with the financial side, if they have this pot of money for projects such as ours we will find out best ways of applying for it.
Also, the council are interested if we can supply Belstone with broadband at the same time as our network is constructed due to it's distance to us and also they are trying to carry out a similar project: thus we could get split funding which would help our case.
We did look at the capital funding side of charging each resident a fixed sum for installation, personally; I still find this unfair and think with what the people of Northlew have had to put up with , loos of shop, post office, phone bus, lack of gritter, pot holes in the square.... free installation is the least they should get.. I wil lfind the best way of getting this if we can.. however, if there is a need to charge.. we will look at the lowest rate possibile and on a payment plan if needed, however, again, if we can get belstone on board with split funding, this will help us.
Councillor McInnes suggested due to the sums involved, we now work on a business plan, part of which has been done by Julia; this week I will look at historic similar projects and see if I can do a case study of them from the financial side. Also, will complete the powerpoint presentation and I have also put out a request for anyone who can lend a DVD camcorder for some of the youth to film a supervised movie of our plight which will go hand in hand with the proposal. In an email to those who are involved in the finiacial side of things, I have suggested we have a viable plan constructed within the next three weeks that would be ready to be sent out with no holes in it.
Clearly, what did come out of the meeting, was how desperate everyone is for broadband and how this is effecting real people and how as a community, with a collective vision; we can change lives.
Finally, we are now able to move foward, we are focused and know our direction: Hopefully, should here more this week, which I will add to this blog.
Chris
13th March
This day usually fills me with dread... Friday the 13th.. and two within 30 days.. the Romans have a lot to answer for with their calender! Anyway.. bit more news fo you:
I have been in touch with Councillor John Rawlinson asking for his support today in our quest for funding, will let you know of his response.
I have also been in touch with a project that provides small grants for community projects such as ours, so awaiting a reply from them.
Also, I have been in touch with two companies that supply used computers to communities for those who need them. Obviously, there are elements in our society who through no fault of their own cannot afford a modern PC or pay a subscription to get online, as part of the Broadband project, we would propose to set up a free community hotspot, perhaps in the outreach post office, where you could go online free of charge as you post your letters! Moreover, we would also have the ability to run classes for those who want to know basic IT skills, such as basic PC repair and system recovery.. to how to email and surf the net.. some people within our community have never been online due to the fact they have never been able to (or afford)
As we get closer to connection, I will get quotes for buying New PC's as over 7 residents have advised they are about to buy a new computer, if we buy in bulk from say Dell, we will get a discount, meaning those who can afford something new, will get it cheaper than buying on their own.. the more people who want one.. the cheaper they become.. Currently a brand new basic PC will cost in the region of £299, so any discount on that will be great. We can only order when we are about to be connected though, so will see what I can find out and perhaps put offers up on this site.
Times are changing and we need to ensure that everyone has the same chances as those with high speed ability, just 3 miles up the road.
12th March
Had an email off Geraldine who made a good point about buying houses in the village without broadband.
If you have tried to sell your home, but have been forced to reduce the price because of lack of broadband, please let me know. Equally, if you purchased your house and managed to get it at a knock down price, also please let me know.
All examples will be used to the National Lottery and West Devon Borough Council under the economics of living in Northlew.
12th March
Had quite a nice letter off Geoffrey Cox Q.C. MP this morning laying out what he is doing on the whole for broadband in the southwest and what he is trying to do for us; Moreover, he has forwarded our own proposal to Ms Clova Fyfe, Head of Parliamentary Affairs, will keep him up to date with whats going on as we will need his support at a later date in the funding aspects of installation.
Also had a letter an application this morning off the National Lottery, reaching communities big fund asking us to submit our application at the earliest date: It's not a complicated form, but will be asking those who took part in the financial meeting last week if they could help, as I don't want to get this wrong.. it has to be right first time.
I am also contacting Garry at Redraw for a full official written quote, once I have this, I will be asking for a personal meeting with West Devon Borough Council and also Geoffrey Cox MP to push this forward the finance, within an achievable timescale.
11th March
We have been asked to attend the parish council meeting this monday to show our proposal and explain the options open to us.
Have so far not had any response off Geoff Cox which is a bit dissapointing, but the council are still excited over it. Moreover, I have had contact from one of the directors of WDBC regarding possibilities of expanding our network to encompass other rural villages in the area like Belstone.
Have now started a business funding presentation and have also been in touch with business link in Plymouth.
Also, we are now at 100 subscribers who have registered on this website!.. well done to all, we have doubled the original estimate!!!
6th March
Emailed Geoffrey Cox MP about our plight regarding central and local government funding against Labours 2012 Broadband target of Broadband for all - Will await reply. Also have been in touch with the local media who are also interested in following this story, as we are now at the final stage.
Julia has been working hard to write up a business case for Broadband in Northlew and sent us all her first draft, which is great! Also, Michael contacted me with his own ideas about pushing BT for a new microwave link or patching in to Broadbury for fibre optic: while we will push ahead with our current plan of funding and wireless 5.8Ghz broadband with Redraw.. there is no harm in contacting BT one final time to discuss options. As I still have contacts at Director level, I will do this Monday and try to convince them there is a business model for them, with or without them.
Andrew contacted me to give examples of his own problems and that of his next door with regards to education which I will include in the business plan to west Devon borough Councils Director meeting next week. Along with a power point presentation for our plight.
We have recieved permission of Rev. Stuart regarding Antenna on the church and he has kindly bought round the application which we can now follow up.
Not much is going to happen over the weekend but we are now upto 90 Registrations!!! well done to all who have helped and thankyou to each person who has registered their details. This again will be passed on to the council to show the need for this project to go ahead now.
Chris
5th March
Don't forget, next week BBC is filming in the village for 'Rural Idyll' if you manage to get your five minutes of fame. mention broadband and the lengths we have had to go to to get it!!'
Today, after the finance meeting, I have been in touch with West Devon borough Council to discuss the project and it's funding needs. I ended up discussing the issues at length with Robert Sekula who asked for everything to be put down in writing and forwarded back to him so he could discuss it further at Director level. He has also forwarded my comments to other members of staff and directors with his own view point on the project.
Because of this, Northlew's broadband needs will be discussed at next weeks director meeting, which hopefully will throw up some ideas about council funding.
Robert forwarded me some initial comments from one the directors who is very upbeat about the idea and will now await the outcome of next weeks board meeting.
I contacted Ian and Rachel and suggested we make a short film about our plight which we could include with any funding applications combined with a power point presentation which I will have a crack at over the weekend to forward back to Robert. Anyone who might be interested in making a short film, please get in touch, especially any youth who might be the next George Lucas and have some artistic ways to get our point across.
I also contacted the national lotteries 'Reaching Communities' Big fund who where very interested in what we are doing; However, their grant scheme takes 4 months to process but they are sending me an initial evaluation form this week to complete and return which takes 15 days before we can submit the actual application for the £50,000.
I have also spoken to the Regional development agency for the south west regarding European funding and also Business Link in Plymouth who can help us push this forward.. more to come on that score next week.
All in all, a positive day with a fantastic reaction from West Devon Borough Council who have historically done all they can to help rural economies such as ours and look forward to working with them to ensure Northlew can say; we have broadband for all!
Chris
4th March
Meeting at the Dragon about raising finance and genrally about the project. Would like to thank all those who came along and all of your input was valuable. After the meeting, I understood far more the reasons why this project is needed and deserved.
I have included what was discussed in a newsletter to everyone. Please check your email.
1st March
Well we are heading now to 80 registrations; well done to you all and a big thank you for helping to push this project forward.
We still have to get the word out to those arround the village who may want broadband when we set the system up. We are still 25 people short of our target but feel we will breach this sometime this week, with your help.
Those of you who have signed up and given your email will get updates as we go along but if not, feel free to use the contact us section of this site or call me.
Also, if you work for any large companies that may feel they wish to sponsor us; big or small.. please get in touch!!
Once again, thank you all for your continued support.
Chris
28th February 2009
All cards now posted, and now looking at carding those just outside the village to make them aware of the project and obviously include them.
Ian suggested that because quite a few people have asked us that they wish to get involved, we should organise a meeting of those who do, say, in the pub on Wednesday night. If anyone is interested in becoming part of the focus group for funding etc. Could you please get in touch.
This won't be an information meeting for those wishing to know more about the project, although it might be an idea to do one of those later as it will be key that everyone knows whats happening and everyone is included in the key aspects of the scheme, such as monthly subscriptions etc. So we will defo come back to that. so Again.
If you want to help or get involved with this project... Contact me... Meeting on Wednesday evening.
27th February 2009
Trigger level now reached as of 22:40 - double now to capacity, we believe all business cards have now been posted and a couple of people have advised they will spread the word in the pub tonight.. Many thanks to you both Ken & Tarnia (hope you had a great night)
27th February 2009
Well business cards/posters came today; and Ian and Rachel Richards are walking the streets delievering them to every household... poor things but total Heros as of 16:11 we are now up to 44 registered, only 6 away from the trigger level and half way to the target 100:
Have spoken to quite a few people today who have called me and shown how interested they are in the project with even offers to help any way they can.. Thank you to all: certainly in the interim, the main cause is getting the message out that this is coming, but only have a small amount of time to register people so that we can get the funding (Around 1 more week) so it's important everyone logs on, or calls to register ASAP so we can get the project moving in the right direction.
We have a target installation date and want to ensure we try to keep to that the best we can, we have a 1 time and 1 time only possibilty of getting this sorted and it's up to each and everyone of us as a community to ensure we get the best chance out there.
One thing has shone through though, those who are signing up to mobile broadband are struggling to connect. I can help you with this if you contact me, but remember it is just GPRS and speeds of around 50kbs so very slow, if you sign up, you are bound by the terms of the contract for 24 months.. irrespective of if Broadband comes to the village. Moreover, the more people that sign up to mobile broadband and use it, the less speeds you will get due to the contention ratio on the cell site. So although mobile (GPRS) is great.. it isn't ideal here in a small village with lots of people wanting to use it, more to the point, most mobile phones can be turned into a GPRS modem.... for nothing! Three do a good 2G (GPRS) unlimited data package on some pay as you go phones... so don't be caught out with a long and expensive contract!
Will update here once we hit the magic 50 number!!!!! Hopefully tonight!!
Chris
26th February 2009
Well, we had a meeting today with Garry and Sue from Redraw and walked around the village, looking at high spots and areas around Northlew such as Ashbury.
The meeting was very productive and below will give you a brief guide of what was discussed:
Speeds = 10 Meg
Tarrifs = 2 Meg or £10 Meg (2Meg £17, 10 Meg £30 (Guide))
Managed bandwidths = No need as if you pay for 10 meg you will get 10 meg.
Synchronization = Symetric 10 Meg up, 10 Meg down.. unlike BT!
Timescale = 60 days from 1st payment
Fault reporting = Call out and telephone support, Warranty on all architecture
Home equipment = Standard Ethernet cable to PC card = Wireless router extra or use own (Ebay sell them) or £40 on day of install for new with warranty
Frequency = 5.8Ghz Framework, personal router 2.4Ghz
Unlimited Use (fair use policy applies)
No limit on Max subscribers, target 100 over 100 original outlay increases.
Planning = Transfers available on external aerials
Signal Strength = Aerials can be installed in lofts if needs be, better signal outside.
Contract length = 12/24 months especially on leased lines.
Type of equipment = 5.8Ghz architecture using their own network through optic fibre.
We are now focused on the funding issue, there are a couple of possibilities which will need to be discussed with you all once we have more information but this forthcoming week we shall be approaching West Devon Borough Council, and Devon County Council regarding funding of the hole project. We have already obtained a fund pack from the national lottery.
Once we reach around 80 subscribers, we will then apply for funding.
Thats about it for now.... more to come!
Chris
Pre - Feb 2009:
Working on my own which has been a struggle, I have had discussions with Ian Livingstone CEO of BT and Dan Moss who have carried out a survey and came to the conclusion at £500,000 Broadband for Northlew is not financially viable with current technology.
Have spoke to Orange about installation of a new 3G mast in Northlew for a better mobile signal but also for 3G Broadband which would only serve around 20 connections at speeds of around 4 Meg at any one time.. this may still go ahead but if 100 people connect to it, it will give the same speeds as dial up.. so only a part measure to the problem.
Have looked at Meshing of existing broadband lines to around 50 homes, but it is doubtful those with broadband would want to share their bandwidth and is a hard network to manage.
Looked at meshing of a satellite network but the costs involved are not viable at nearly £200 per 5GB download, for 2 Meg.. Talking £10k per month to run.
Looked at Self Install Wimax using IT people in the village to help set it up a street at a time via connection directly into Exchange - possible and cheap.
Spoke to various companies who could install point to point technology over 5Ghz wireless Bridge - Average price is about £20K + Subscriber points at around £70 per home.
Looked at patching into the Rutleigh copper pair loop which is high gauge cable, which could give broadband to 50 homes.. BT won't do but an engineer states there is still room if you are still on the old copper pair system for Broadband if Dacs is removed.
Advised Parish Council of my plans
Worked closely with Ian and Rachel.
Pre 2006
Ian and rachel have had extensive exposure through the media about lack of Broadband
They have set up a focus group to find the best ways broadband could be achieved.
Set up a community Interest Company which is still active and has accounts.
The focus group looks at various funding possibilites.
Got in touch with the people that counted such as Villagers, Rev Stuart, Councillors, parish Council and WDBC.
Announcements
Calling ... well... EVERYONE.. if you want broadband, we need you to sign up on this site.. it won't cost you anything, you are not under any obligation but we need those who feel they would want this service to register!
This is an important part of the planning aspect when we are working out subscription charges or just if there is enough people in Northlew who want broadband.. if you haven't yet signed up... You can do it, by clicking this text.