OXFORD’S businesses will soon be able to apply for up to £3,000 in vouchers to install faster broadband.

The scheme, for small and medium sized businesses, will launch in Oxford early next year and aims to help boost trade in the city.

Oxford is one of 22 cities that are part of the Government’s £100m broadband voucher scheme.

Oxford City Council will administer the project locally.

City council leader Bob Price said: “The voucher scheme is designed to provide support for small and medium-sized businesses to set up an ultra-fast broadband connection that will develop their business potential.”

Wantage MP Ed Vaizey, who is Minister for Culture, Communications and Creatives Industries, said: “Today, businesses expect and demand faster and faster broadband to compete in the global race.

“Connection vouchers will be an important tool for cities in helping to address that demand.”

To register interest in the broadband scheme, visit website connectionvouchers.co.uk