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Insider UK
Technology
John Glover

Commsworld secures 15-year contract to upgrade North Lanarkshire's digital connectivity

Commsworld has secured a 15-year contract with North Lanarkshire Council, which could see £150m spent throughout the period.

The contract aims to transform the digital infrastructure and connectivity of the region by rolling out its gigabit-capable fibre broadband across the local authority area.

It would create free public WiFi networks in town centres and boost the internet connectivity in schools.

The framework adds to the Edinburgh-based firm's growth in the public sector, having already delivered enhanced infrastructure in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Renfrewshire and the Scottish Borders.

In the phased programme of work, the council’s 155 schools will get better internet access, with 20 times the current capacity for primary and secondary schools.

John Trower, chairman of Commsworld, said: “This transformation will provide opportunities to regenerate every one of its town centres, schools and council buildings.

“We have been able to provide a step change in connectivity and resiliency in all these areas, changes that have delivered considerable benefits to everyone living, learning and working there.”

Councillor Kenneth Duffy, convener of the council’s Transformation and Digitisation Committee, said: “The award of this contract to Commsworld is a huge leap forward for the ambitions we have for everyone in North Lanarkshire.

“The potential impact of these plans cannot be underestimated as this contract has brought forward and increased the availability and choice of fibre broadband to towns, communities, businesses and rural areas across North Lanarkshire, massively improving their digital connectivity and delivering a gross value added of around £1.3bn over 15 years.”

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