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The Actnow project - launched back in February 2002 - was a test case for providing ADSL service in rural areas. The apparent success of the project means that four new exchanges will be upgraded.

With almost 3,000 Cornish businesses and households having signed up for ADSL broadband, BT has committed to upgrading four more exchanges: St Ives, Bude, Saltash and Penryn. This should happen by 3 February.

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Research by BT's own BTexact Technologies suggests it has taken just nine months for the Cornish exchanges to achieve the market penetration levels that an average rural exchange reaches in 15 months.

'This new research demonstrates what a success Actnow has been and shows what can be achieved through partnerships,' said BT's chief broadband officer, Alison Ritchie. 'It would be great if other local and regional authorities would study and learn from the Cornish experience if they want to bring the benefits of broadband to their area.'

'BT, along with every other operator, faces tough challenges in rolling out broadband to rural areas, but this project shows what can be achieved if people work with us,' she added.