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Leeds and Bradford announced as “super-connected” cities

Leeds and Bradford have been announced as two of the first super connected cities in the UK, following the Chancellor’s Budget.

The two authorities submitted a joint bid to Government for funding through the Urban Broadband Fund as part of the Leeds City Region Partnership’s plans to support economic growth, job creation and a more inclusive society.

Leeds and Bradford will receive up to £15m in support projects which include rolling-out ultra-fast broadband access to 88,000 homes and over 16,000 businesses.

As current broadband coverage tends to have only around 2-10mb, the new service will offer 100mb+.

Cllr Keith Wakefield, Leader Leeds City Council said: “I am very pleased that we have been successful in our joint bid to become one of the first super connected cities.

“This funding will enable us to accelerate the transformation of our cities, putting in place digital connections amongst the best in Europe.

“This will be a major attraction to business and will help in attracting further investment to both cities to support our economic growth ambitions.”

Cllr Greenwood, Leader of Bradford Council added: “I very much welcome today’s announcement. Creating a super-fast broadband network will be essential to ensure our businesses are able to take advantage of the opportunities of enhanced digital connectivity and remain competitive.

“This will support jobs in Bradford and the wider city region in coming years.”

Other cities that are set to benefit from a £100m injection of Treasury funds include Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester, Cardiff, Birmingham, London, Belfast and Edinburgh.

The “super-connected cities” were first announced in the Chancellor’s autumn statement, with a view to establish the infrastructure by 2015.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .