City leads the way in digital revolution

An initiative to upgrade internet access for millions of homes and businesses was launched in Peterborough.

Treasury minister Andrew Jones MP unveiled the government’s £400 million Digital Infrastructure Investment Fund, which it is hoped will unlock more than £1 billion for better broadband connections across the country.

The launch took place at the Allia Future Centre, in London Road, in front of civic leaders and business people.

Mr Jones said: “Full fibre will provide us with the better broadband we need to work flexibly and productively, without connections failing. We’ve come to Peterborough because Peterborough is leading the way in this.”

Peterborough was the winner of Smart City of the Year at the 2015 World Smart City Awards. It has a 120km full fibre network, built by CityFibre,

Mr Jones said: “Peterborough is an example of what can be achieved and we want to see other parts of the country really catch up with Peterborough.”

James Palmer, mayor of the Combined Authority of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said: “The money is there and it’s up to the private sector to get on with it.

“Peterborough is ahead of the game and is one of the best connected cities in the world.

“The rest of Cambridgeshire needs to look up to Peterborough and see how things are being done and how it can be replicated.”

Mark Collins, a director of CityFibre, said: “Mr Jones spoke to local business leaders who told of the value fullfibre infrastructure brings by increasing productivity and providing a platform for innovation and new services. Thanks to this fund, more businesses and communities can enjoy these benefits.”

Two infrastructure investment firms - Amber Fund Management and M&G Investments, will manage the fund.

Treasury minister Andrew Jones MP, left, with Steve Bowyer, chief executive of Opportunity Peterborough.