A recent survey from bOnline has shown that many SMEs are unsure about the availability of altnet in their area, with confusion over the UK’s broadband roll-out strategy.
CityFibre’s £40m investment into Medway’s digital infrastructure may unlock over £990m in economic benefits, according to a report by Hatch.
The study estimates that over a fifteen-year period, Medway will see £521m in productivity and innovation gains, £115m from a widened workforce, £13m in local authority efficiency savings and £459m in increased housing value.
Technological benefits include £1bn in gross value added (GVA) from 5G services, £420m from the Internet of Things and £220m from Smart City initiatives.
Area Manager Anne Krausse said: “Our network will ensure the area is ready to thrive in the digital age and provide a platform for innovation and investment.”
Cllr Alan Jarrett, Leader of Medway Council, added: “Digital connectivity is very important and will allow local businesses to boost productivity and support economic growth.”