Poor internet connectivity is delaying digital transformation across UK farms, particularly in Derbyshire, where rural operations are struggling to access reliable broadband. A new nationwide survey of British farmers highlights the extent to which sluggish internet is blocking progress in adopting technologies such as artificial intelligence, real-time monitoring, and precision farming tools.
According to the Censuswide study commissioned by CityFibre, 60% of farmers see internet access as essential to daily operations, yet 8% of farms are still entirely offline. Even among those connected, nearly half say the lack of reliable broadband is a key barrier to embracing new technology—second only to cost.
The impact is not just operational. Many farmers report having to avoid internet use during peak hours, disrupting both business and family life. Inadequate connectivity also contributes to social isolation in rural areas, cutting farmers off from community resources and affecting wellbeing.
Where full fibre broadband is available, farms report notable improvements: 47% have been able to deploy precision farming systems, while others have seen boosts in administrative efficiency, land diversification, and general productivity.
The findings underline the importance of accelerating rural broadband infrastructure. CityFibre, awarded nine government contracts under the Project Gigabit initiative, is contributing to a £1.2 billion investment aimed at connecting over 500,000 hard-to-reach rural premises, including both homes and agricultural businesses.
