Ultrafast fibre broadband to be rolled out
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THE next step towards creating an ultrafast fibre broadband network across Halton and the Liverpool City Region has been announced.
Work is taking place preparing to start on a fibre network of more than 220km across the six local authority areas of the Liverpool City Region.
Two supplier events were due to be held where fibre companies, network operators, contractors, investors, and other relevant organisations could find out how they can become involved in the design, deployment and management of the network.
They involved a presentation about the project with opportunities to submit ideas, share information, and have direct dialogue with the Combined Authority.
Information gathered from the events will inform the procurement of the deployment and management of a fibre network.
This process is expected to start later in the year.
Speaking about the project, metro mayor Steve Rotheram said: “Connectivity made us the gateway to the first Industrial Revolution and can put us at the forefront of the fourth Industrial Revolution.
“Devolution gives us the opportunity to transform our city region by making use of our key assets. The transatlantic internet cables connecting the UK, North America and the rest of the world land in Sefton, and we have one of the most powerful supercomputers in the country – the Hartree supercomputer – in Halton. By linking those two assets with an ultrafast fibre network that connects all six of our local authorities, and links
into projects like the Knowledge Quarter, we can supercharge our economy, creating inclusive growth that benefits everyone.
“We are going to make this digital revolution a reality and I’d like to encourage industry experts and investors to join us. It’s not just about fibre broadband; it’s about digital in all of its forms.
“Transformational projects such as Digital Connectivity and our Mersey Tidal Power project will enhance our reputation internationally and deliver real benefits for local people, businesses and our communities.”
A spokesman for Mr Rotheram said the ambitious vision is for the Liverpool City Region to deliver transformational, inclusive economic growth, which will require faster, more reliable and more resilient digital connectivity.
The major new core fibre network will consist of a series of digital ‘loops’, which will stimulate fibre networks enabling businesses, public service providers and people at home to access next generation connectivity.
The Combined Authority is working collaboratively with its six constituent local authorities and other key partners.
Cllr David Baines, portfolio holder for digital connectivity and inclusion for the Combined Authority, said: “This is a transformational project that aims to firmly place our city region at the forefront of digital connectivity.
“High speed, reliable and resilient connectivity together with a future proofed network infrastructure will bring huge opportunities and a wide range of benefits to those living and working in all six of our boroughs.”
Asif Hamid MBE, chair of the Liverpool City Region LEP, added: “Creating a fit for purpose digital infrastructure for the Liverpool City Region is incredibly important for business – faster, more reliable connectivity will not only support the businesses we have operating in the city region, but will also attract major companies and industries here, thereby creating more job opportunities for our residents.
“It is vital that we get the right suppliers to ensure we are at the forefront of the digital revolution and I would encourage companies to attend these two events.”