Digital Region is a next generation broadband project aiming to bring a wholesale network that enables advanced IP-based services to be provided to citizens, businesses and the public sector throughout South Yorkshire. The project will afford South Yorkshire the opportunity to position itself within a global marketplace, offering Service Providers a unique opportunity to provide a next generation broadband infrastructure that will be closely watched by global players in the communications sector.

Click here to link to find out more - www.digitalregion.co.uk/nextgen.html

The Digital Region project was launched in June 2005 recognising the opportunity to transform the economic and social landscape of the region through next generation broadband. It is anticipated that the creation of an open-access, super-high-speed internet service - accessible across the entirety of South Yorkshire, will transform communications, entertainment, and business activities for citizens living and working in the region.

As an initiative that is being embraced by the region’s key stakeholders, including Local Strategic Partnerships, policymakers, funding bodies, businesses and public sector organisations such as health authorities and education providers, Digital Region is being firmly embedded within the future plans for the whole of South Yorkshire.

Click here to link to find out more - www.digitalregion.co.uk/impact.html

Building the Infrastructure

In order to secure a Business Partner to design, build, manage and operate the Digital Region infrastructure on behalf of the South Yorkshire Local Authorities, a full and open negotiated EU procurement process was commenced in September 2005.

Some major players from the communications industry have been shortlisted to enter bids for the provision, with a final decision being made in the autumn.

The shortlist is made up of the following five companies:

Affiniti (part of Kingston Communications Plc)
Alcatel Telecom Ltd
BT Plc
Easynet (BskyB)
Thales Telecommunications Services Ltd.

Shortlisted bidders will submit initial proposals in May 2006 and the final investment decision will be made by South Yorkshire’s four Councils following recommendations from the Digital Region Project Board in Autumn 2006. Implementation will be scheduled to start at the beginning of 2007.

Click here to link to find out more - www.digitalregion.co.uk/dev.html

The Digital Region project is supported by a partnership of Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council, Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, Sheffield City Council, Yorkshire Forward and Objective 1.

To register an interest in the Digital Region project, click on www.digitalregion.co.uk/contact.html

If you would like to unsubscribe to these news updates, please click here