The development of fibre-optic cable broadband could be faster in Birmingham than any other city, a new report suggests.

Talking to the Birmingham Post, BT's West Midlands regional director, John Dovey, has hailed the achievement of upgrading over three-quarters of the area with the 21st Century Network platform.

Despite the fact that investment still needs to be found to provide the services, Mr Dovey explained that infrastructure was now in place for ISPs wishing to deliver next-generation services.

He commented: "Exceeding 77 per cent technology coverage in the Birmingham area is a major milestone for this exciting, world-leading project.

"Most of the foundations are now in place for offering next generation broadband services, but of course it will take time for companies offering those services to introduce products taking full advantage of this major investment."

BT and Birmingham City Council launched a Free Information Zone in 2007, giving broadband users in the city centre wireless access.