A MULTI-MILLION pound project to bring 'superfast' internet to homes across Worcestershire has been signed up to by just 6,000 households, it has emerged.

New data reveals how the much-trumpeted £21 million superfast broadband scheme has been taken up by only 17 per cent of those eligible for it, leading to a row between councillors about "a waste of money".

The project, backed with up to £8.5 million from county taxpayers, is among the most expansive in the UK, bringing ultra-fast web speeds to 95 per cent of county homes and businesses by 2018.

It recently passed a major milestone in connecting the fibres to 35,000 properties, but the sign-up rate is only about 6,000.

The Conservative leadership at County Hall says the figure is still better than most parts of the country and insists it will rise, pointing to the fact many people are tied into contracts with providers which may have several months to run.

But questions are being asked of the finances of the deal, with is being done in conjunction with BT.

Councillor Peter McDonald, who leads the opposition Labour group, said: "This was a private venture and the council should have never got involved in an effort to boost the profits of one particular company that makes profits in the billions.

"With street lighting being turned off at midnight, funding cuts to tackle drug abuse, domestic violence, youth centres being closed down and young people thrown on to the streets?

"That £8m would have kept all these services and more going. It really turns my stomach."

But the council says the scheme, which has overwhelming backing from the business community, is a vital one in ensuring Worcestershire is not "left behind".

Councillor Simon Geraghty, the deputy leader and cabinet member for economy, skills and infrastructure, said: "Take-up in Worcestershire, three years before deployment will be completed, currently stands at just over 17 per cent.

"This is above the average nationally when compared to other areas at a similar point in their deployment.

"We must not lose sight that superfast broadband will enable our business and residents to build develop and be prepared for the future.

BT is stumping up £8.9 million towards the costs while the Government has forked out £3.3 million.

By 2018 it is hoped the project will have reached 55,000 properties across the county.