London’s broadband divide widens: Bexley leads while other boroughs lag far behind

A new digital divide could open up in London, with millions of people missing out on faster, more reliable broadband.

Openreach has rolled out gigabit-capable broadband to 2.3m properties in the capital. However, many are yet to switch, prompting calls for residents to check their eligibility for upgrading.

Bexley leads the capital, with 47 per cent of homes that can get full fibre already upgraded.

But a growing digital divide is emerging, with Kensington and Chelsea, Newham, Ealing and Islington among the areas switching at the slowest rates.

In Newham, almost two thirds of properties can access full fibre, yet only 15 per cent have taken a service.

Full Fibre allows for smoother streaming, faster downloads, and more stable connections - particularly important for households with multiple devices or for those working from home.

People living in London can see if they can upgrade to full fibre by visiting Openreach’s full fibre checker.

Kieran Wines, Openreach’s Partnership Director for London and the South East, said: “We’ve rolled out Full Fibre to most of Greater London, but many people still haven’t made the switch. It’s not automatic—you need to place an order with your chosen provider. The first step is to check your postcode online. It’s quick, and it could mean access to a much faster, more reliable broadband connection.”

“Openreach is committed to building the best full fibre network, and doing it sustainably is crucial for our business, the communities we serve, and the environment we all share. As part of our ‘Let’s Reach Zero’ strategy, we aim to lower our carbon emissions, use less and waste less material, and protect nature wherever we operate.”

Full Fibre technology offers a faster, more reliable connection that keeps up with the demands of today’s digital world.  

Whether streaming your favourite show, gaming online, making a video call, managing your finances, or running a business, full fibre keeps everything running smoothly.  

Openreach’s full fibre network now reaches more than 22 million properties, and the company plans to extend this to 25 million homes and businesses by the end of 2026, with a belief it can reach as many as 30 million by the end of the decade – with the right investment conditions.