Agenda item

Julie Tattershall was welcomed to the meeting to provide an update on Superfast South Yorkshire (SFSY) and Accelerating Digital Barnsley.

Members heard how SFSY was a partnership between the four South Yorkshire local authorities, Building Digital UK, Openreach and the Local Enterprise Partnership.  So far SFSY had increased availability of superfast broadband from 80% to over 98% bringing nearly 120,000 new connections. In addition, support had been provided to SMEs on how to gain the benefits of connectivity and advice relating to infrastructure had also been provided to developers and to planning departments.

Members noted the current activity being undertaken, including working with Openreach to provide fibre to the premises for 8,000 homes, inputting into digital strategies in Barnsley and the City Region and also being consulted on digital connectivity as part of the planning process.

Noted was the work undertaken in the Dearne Area with a total of 2,695 properties now having improved connectivity due to Phase 1, and a further 167 in phase 2. Also noted were plans for Openreach to improve the exchange in Goldthorpe, for City Fibre to invest in infrastructure in the area, and that Virgin Media were also looking to upgrade their infrastructure.

Those present heard of the work of Accelerate Digital Barnsley. This included efforts to increase gigabit-capable broadband infrastructure from commercial providers such as City Fibre, to stimulate demand through voucher schemes, and to ensure all new residential and commercial sites were future proofed with gigabit capable infrastructure.

Members also were made aware of Internet of Things (IoT) work to utilise technology in smart ways, collecting data to be used for strategic decision making. Examples of temperature sensors being used to help decide when to deploy gritters was given and parking sensors to monitor occupancy and dwell time to inform the parking strategy.

It was noted that officers also worked with network providers to plan the installation of 5G provision over the next two years. 

Members acknowledged the strategic linkages being made and social value opportunities created.  The work to address digital exclusion was also acknowledged, with 1,400 laptops already distributed, and more donated devices to give to those requiring one.

Members discussed the availability of data relating to the use of 4G and 5G at an area level, and it was noted that most data was commercially sensitive and therefore not available.  However, it was understood that Sheffield City Region was considering purchasing more detailed data and therefore this may be available in the future.

RESOLVED that thanks be given for the presentation, and that its content be noted.