Broadband is a hotly debated topic. Whilst some are starting to benefit from ‘superfast’ fibre optic broadband, news reports frequently say that most of us are not getting the broadband speeds we are promised, expect or need. Some still live and work in broadband ‘notspots’.
Earlier this month the government published its interim Digital Britain Report. The first objective focuses on 'Upgrading and modernising our digital networks – wired, wireless and broadcast – so that Britain has an infrastructure that enables it to remain globally competitive in the digital world'. The report goes on to list a series of actions including one to help the Community Broadband Network (CBN) set up a national framework for local action, aiming to create next generation broadband services around the country.
CBN together with Connected Nottingham have joined forces to host a Next Generation Broadband event on 24th March at the Albert Hall, as part of a wider series of regional road shows.
Connected Nottingham is a brand initiative developed by Accelerate Nottingham which brings together and celebrates partners’ achievements within the technology agenda in the Nottingham Conurbation and the county of Nottinghamshire.
The event aims to inform decision makers about economic and business issues, technologies, what local communities are doing about next generation broadband and how this national framework for local action is being created.
Peter Goodwin from Connected Nottingham commented: “We are extremely pleased to host a Roadshow on Next Generation Access. Nottingham is working very hard on bringing high speed broadband to businesses and the community. The interim Digital Britain report sets out some clear objectives and during the event we will showcase our latest plans for the city and the region and explain the wider economic benefits.”
Malcolm Corbett CEO from CBN commented: “Next Generation Broadband (sometimes called superfast broadband) through good fibre infrastructure and in particular open access networks will benefit businesses, consumers and the economy as a whole. It can stimulate inward investment and innovation, lead to education growth and enable skill retention.”
The Roadshows are intended for key influencers and senior staff in local councils, Regional Development Agency officials, planners, developers, business, community groups and other stake-holders.
The Nottingham Roadshow takes place on 24 March in the Albert Hall. You can find further information and booking details on the CBN website: www.broadband.coop.
The tour starts in Gateshead (18 March) and will then go to Nottingham (24 March), Bristol (31 March), Birmingham (22 April), Hampshire (31 May) and will finish in Manchester in June with a major wrap-up event.