Wolverhampton Seeks Public Views on Internet Speeds

Wolverhampton wants public views on plans to speed up internet connection.

19:38 04 August 2019

Wolverhampton’s residents are being asked for feedback on the council’s moves to improve the city’s digital infrastructure to provide faster internet connection in a bid to make the city a more attractive place for people to live and to attract more businesses in the area.

 

 

 

The council's Cabinet Member for City Economy, Councillor Harman Banger (Lab. East Park), said: "Digital connectivity is an important driver of economic growth and will help increase employability in the city.

 

 

 

"Fibre, wireless and 5G are converging into a single, ultra-fast, multi-modal and integrated communications infrastructure network.

 

 

 

"It is vital we realise the benefits for residents, businesses and public services as we move towards being a smart city and I would urge people to get involved in the consultation."

 

 

 

In a report to members, the council's Head of Digital Infrastructure Heather Clark added: "Having a future-proofed digital infrastructure is crucial to making Wolverhampton a more attractive place to live, run a business and invest.

 

 

 

"Currently, 97 per cent of the city is connected to superfast broadband through a mixture of fibre to cabinets and copper to premises with

 

speeds of up to 30 MB, but the future is full fibre.

 

 

 

"The Government has committed to full fibre coverage by 2033. However, if Wolverhampton is ahead of the game, this makes us a more attractive place for investment and ultimately supports economic growth.

 

 

 

"The benefits of full fibre broadband are significant - over 15 years this would lead to £27million worth of direct impact, £64 million in business impact and £58 million of benefits to households," she added.