The Welsh Government recently launched a review of broadband in Wales to improve the country’s digital infrastructure.
Three years ago, almost 55% of residential premises in Wales could access “superfast broadband” at speeds of 30Mbps or higher, compared to 75% across the UK. Today, this figure has increased to 94%, but take-up in Wales is still lagging at around 63%.
Telecommunications is a reserved matter – meaning that it’s not the responsibility of the Welsh Government to intervene. it is expected that the commercial sector will do most of the work in funding the initiative.
High-speed connections are up and running in 166 public buildings across Wales
The UK Government has announced the completion of the largest public sector broadband project in Wales. This will help connect the hard-to-reach rural areas of the country. It will also support the roll-out of faster full fibre broadband connections in public buildings, which is a key part of the Local Full Fibre Networks (LFFN) programme. ISPs such as Shell Energy and Sky will fully support this service.
These connections are installed in 166 public buildings across Wales, including the capital city, Cardiff. They will also help improve access to digital health services, as well as leisure facilities.
The report includes evidence that highlights the links between key trends and the opportunities and risks they pose. This is a critical resource for policymakers; plus, it helps them understand how the future will look.
For example, increasing internet use is a trend that is evident across the UK. However, those who have not had the opportunity to access the internet are often left behind. Despite this, more and more adults are using the Internet in Wales with every passing year.
Commercial operators expected to do most of the work
If the Welsh Government is going to spend £5bn (or more) on a project that involves building a superfast broadband network, it should not forget the more underserved counties. A recent report by the Welsh Government’s Climate Change, Environment and Infrastructure Committee has highlighted the plight of rural Wales. In fact, the CCEIC’s top-level report makes 10 recommendations to improve the state of digital connectivity in the land of dragons and drudges.
The best way to approach this multi-million-pound undertaking is to engage with key stakeholders. While the public may not be the first port of call, there are several private sector companies that have an interest in ensuring that a nation of swathes of unconnected technology remains a step ahead of the competition.
Barriers to efficient deployment of digital infrastructure
Digital connectivity has become a critical factor for businesses, the public, and for individual citizens. This demand for fast, and cheap, broadband has made digital infrastructure an attractive investment asset for many companies.
However, a digital divide exists between rural and urban areas. The geographical differences between rural and urban areas affect the online experience for consumers. Similarly, territorial divides in telecommunications infrastructures are likely to grow as private sector service providers continue to prioritise investments in profitable urban markets.
In order to close the digital divide, it is essential to address both the geographical and policy context of digital connectivity. Several different solutions are needed to address digital exclusion. Gigabit broadband is an important step towards meeting the need for faster internet access, as demand for internet-connected devices and services grow.
