Lincolnshire County Council plans to pilot Elon Musk's Starlink satellite system to improve broadband access for rural farms that lack sufficient internet connectivity. The council intends to acquire and install Starlink facilities for properties identified as "not spots," areas that do not have access to fiber broadband.
This initiative will focus on the County Farms Estate, which spans approximately 16,500 acres and includes 149 tenant holdings. The pilot aims to evaluate the effectiveness of satellite broadband as a practical solution for farms and other rural businesses struggling with poor internet service.
Paul Lock, executive councillor for the economy, highlighted the increasing reliance on digital connectivity for modern farming operations. "Today, so much farming depends on being connected, from paperwork and accounting, to livestock management, or simply everyday communication," Lock stated. He added, "In reality, it's becoming harder and harder to run a business without good internet access."
The trial will involve farmers signing up to test the Starlink service, providing feedback on its performance and utility in an agricultural context. The program seeks to determine if satellite internet can bridge the digital divide for those in areas underserved by traditional broadband infrastructure.