Thousands of council tenants in Croydon are to offered access to high-speed internet following an agreement with two providers.

Community Fibre will starts work in the coming weeks on providing full-fibre broadband to 11,000 properties across the borough.

At the moment most properties only have copper cables running from the street to the building, which limits internet speeds. Within the new agreement, fibre cables will be installed to the customer’s router.

The installation will come at no cost to the Council, with residents only paying if they decide to sign up for the faster service on offer.

Councillor Alison Butler, deputy leader and cabinet member for homes and Gateway services, said: “These agreements will ensure our council tenants and leaseholders have the option to get a high-speed internet service, which will reduce digital exclusion in the borough.

“As the world becomes increasingly digital-focussed, this move means our council tenants, and those living privately, will now be able to access the web and many services even more easily.”

Openreach, which covers social and private residences in Thornton Heath, is also looking to extend its reach.

Under agreement with the council, free wifi will be provided by Community Fibre in communal areas of sheltered housing and council-owned community buildings.

Apprenticeships and job opportunities for Croydon residents are also being discussed and encouraged to be part of the council's 100 apprenticeships in 100 days campaign.