Aberdeen City Council will launch an ambitious bid for hyper-fast broadband connections this week.
An application to the UK Government’s 5G Urban Connected Communities project will be lodged as plans for the city’s digital future gather pace.
The scheme is run by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport – with successful cities set to trial emerging 5G technologies for residents and businesses.
The bid follows the announcement in February that Aberdeen is to become Scotland’s first gigabit city through a £40million investment from CityFibre. The firm is working in partnership with Vodafone to deliver full-fibre broadband throughout the city.
The 5G project will tap into £200million of funding to support the development of mobile connectivity.
Roads with built-in pothole warnings, driverless cars and park benches with wi-fi are among visions of the city of the future set out by townhouse leaders.
Council co-leader Douglas Lumsden said: “There is a real determination to build on the foundations already in place and this bid is an example of that forward-thinking attitude. There will be stern competition – but we believe Aberdeen has a compelling case.
“Aberdeen’s future success depends on technology being an enabler, not a barrier. The Council is really driving the digital agenda and we will consider every opportunity open to us.
“Users increasingly demand seamless access – so fixed and wireless connectivity has to evolve to meet those requirements. 5G has a major role in that and it would fantastic if Aberdeen could play its part in tests and trials.”
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “Aberdeen City Council has to be commended for having a clear vision to ensure the right kind of wireless infrastructure is in place to enable a smart city to support so many aspects of the lives of our public and our many businesses.”
