Find out how we are supporting the roll out of broadband and 5G across the city.
The council plays a vital role in encouraging economic development in the city. Better digital connectivity is a key part of this. It’s important as our local economy specialises in the creative, digital and IT sectors.
City Plan Part 1 outlines how we support the supply and maintenance of efficient digital and telecommunication infrastructure across the city.
It recognises that the supply and maintenance of new infrastructure, including masts and road side cabinets, has the potential to contribute to street clutter and impact on the look and feel of the city.
City Plan Part 2 policy DM25 lays out how we seek to minimise the impact.
CityFibre began work in February 2021 on an £80 million rollout of full fibre broadband throughout the city. At launch the project was expected to take 4 to 5 years to complete.
The project aims to deliver faster and more reliable internet. This means connections will be less likely to slow down during busy times of the day or when several devices are connected at the same time. This will futureproof the city’s digital connectivity by ensuring our infrastructure can service the speed and bandwidth requirements of both residents and businesses for decades to come.
In November 2022 CityFibre announced that broadband users in 3 areas of the city are now able to access some of the fastest internet services available. These areas are:
Find more information on the CityFibre website.
5G’s greater capacity allows thousands of devices in a small area to connect at the same time, with more stable connections than before.
We’re keen to develop the most up-to-date and effective mobile and wireless technology for work premises in the city. Many of our residents also expect higher internet speeds and reliability in their homes and on their phones.
In April 2022 the government introduced changes to the law. Telecoms operators can now install higher and broader 5G masts without council approval.
Our interactive Mast & Applications map shows existing and proposed sites (where operators have notified us of planned sites).