In a groundbreaking report released by Curia, the UK’s pioneering “do tank,” the transformative power full-fibre broadband on the Isle of Wight’s future is unveiled.
By 2030, this digital revolution promises to:
- Ignite the local economy by generating £328m in new business and preserving £73m in existing ventures.
- Create a thriving job market with 1,800 new roles and the protection of 450 current positions.
- Drive public sector innovation with over £2m in savings.
- Foster community and skill development with an impact valued at £50.2m.
Propelling the Island into a new era of digital excellence
As of December 2023, the Isle of Wight boasts a 77 per cent full-fibre broadband coverage, eclipsing the national average of 60 per cent and setting a new standard for rural connectivity.
With service available to nearly 70,000 homes and businesses, and a target of 82,000 by 2027, WightFibre, alongside BT Openreach’s commitment, is propelling the Island into a new era of digital excellence.
The tangible benefits
The report meticulously calculates the tangible benefits of this technological leap:
- An annual increase of £86m in new business GVA by 2030.
- Approximately £2m in public sector network savings by the same year.
- Potential savings of over £3.5m annually in public sector operations, starting in 2024, with the integration of remote digital healthcare plans.
- A colossal £110m local investment by WightFibre by 2030, solidifying its status as the island’s leading broadband provider.
- A substantial social impact, including digital inclusion and upskilling, valued at £50.2m by 2030.
- Over £62.6m in carbon taxation savings by 2030, with more than £12m saved annually from that point forward.
Irvine: It is about more than just providing broadband
John Irvine, CEO of WightFibre, reflects on the company’s mission,
“WightFibre’s company purpose is about more than just providing broadband, it’s about helping make the Isle of Wight a better place to live, work and play.
“This report shows how WightFibre is delivering on that aim, leading the way on the delivery of full-fibre broadband across the Island.”
The full report can be seen below, embedded for your convenience (or download here).
News shared by Deon on behalf of Wightfibre. Ed
