RECENT approval for the upgrade of the UK's rural broadband network has been welcomed by distance learning service providers.

The £530m rural broadband scheme will improve web services in the country's more remote areas, said the Distance Learning Centre.

Upgrades are being rolled out throughout the country as part of government plans to connect 90% of homes to superfast broadband, it said.

The news can only be good for Britain's economy as well as many people's quality of life, said Mike Verinder, managing director of the Distance Learning Centre.

"People in rural communities want to develop their skills, gain new qualifications and improve their employment and promotion prospects," he said.

"Many of our students – and new ones we're sure will now come forward – will benefit from improved broadband, enhancing their ability to play their part in our nation's economic regeneration."

Distance learning already had many benefits for those living in rural communities, said Mr Verinder.

It allowed them to access subject specific expertise and benefit from one-to-one tutoring that fitted in with their own commitments and circumstances.

"Improved connectivity can only enhance that experience," Mr Verinder said.