Plans Announced To Boost Digital Connectivity

Technology minister Sir John Whittingdale has announced plans to increase digital connectivity across the country.

Residents in Papa Stour, one of the country's most remote communities, will now have access to high-speed broadband.

Other initiatives include support for local authorities to procure and test ‘smart lampposts’, that will have the capability to deliver wifi and electric vehicle charging.

The announcement was made at London Tech Week, where the minister also announced the Smart Infrastructure Pilots Programme (SIPP), which will help local authorities to deploy advanced digital infrastructure such as smart lampposts.

 Sir John Whittingdale, said: "Our announcements today will help ensure that everyone, no matter where they live, has access to high-speed broadband and other digital services that they need to thrive in the 21st century.

"Improving Papa Stour’s connectivity is a major milestone in our efforts to close the digital divide as it transforms the lives of the island’s residents and visitors.

"The Smart Infrastructure Pilots Programme shows how we can use technology to make our communities a better place to live and work and the MoU we have signed with Australia is a significant step in our efforts to work with international partners to build a more secure and resilient telecoms network.

"Improving digital connectivity is a top priority for the government. Our mission is to deliver fast, reliable connectivity for everyone in the UK and to continue to be a global leader in telecoms, and today’s package shows exactly that."

Technology and decarbonisation minister Jesse Norman said: "By turning lamp posts and other road infrastructure into smart devices such as public wifi points, the government are investing in the ways everyday transport infrastructure can be transformed for a greener, cleaner future.

"This programme will boost connectivity across the country and increase electric vehicle charging access, helping us to reach our net zero goals."

Source: Government Business