Purpose

Seeking approval and adoption of the local authority's strategy for rolling out digital infrastructure and improving connectivity across Buckinghamshire

Decision

Buckinghamshire did not currently have a strategy for digital infrastructure and connectivity. As a key enabler of growth there was a need for a strategy to drive focus of activity and promote better connectivity across the county particularly as the market became more complex. The Growth Board agreed that a working group would be put together to review the evidence and support development of the strategy. The group comprised of colleagues from Economic Growth and Regeneration, Bucks Local Enterprise Partnership , Bucks Business First, Community Boards and the IT.  A draft outline for the Strategy was considered by the Growth Board in June 2024 and at that stage did not have a detailed action plan.

RESOLVED

·       That the Digital Infrastructure & Connectivity Strategy 2024-30 and action plan as a key corporate document of Buckinghamshire Council be endorsed.

·       That the success measures outlined in the report be agreed.

·       That the focus of activity set out in the report be agreed

·       That the £51k windfall income from the rural broadband contract be retained for the purchase of equipment to enable mobile coverage data gathering (forecast £5k) and the remaining windfall funding be placed in the Economic Development reserve for development of a rural hub programme be agreed.

·       That the voucher programme utilising remaining funding (already in capital budget) be resumed.