BROADBAND and mobile phone mast providers in Richmondshire are set to get reduced business rates as the council encourages 100 percent coverage across the district.

The new scheme, led by Richmondshire District Council, is adding a list of broadband and mobile phone mast operators to its list of businesses eligible for the reduction.

Council leader, Councillor Yvonne Peacock, said: "In the past we were restricted on where we could provide discretionary relief but that has now been lifted.

"It is important that we help bring 100 percent broadband coverage to our district – it is vital to the economy and vitality of Richmondshire and will enable businesses to grow and people to stay in our district.

She added coverage was important to attract people to live and work in the district.