A recent report commissioned by CityFibre, the UK’s largest independent full fibre platform, reveals that Rotherham is poised to enjoy substantial economic advantages following the implementation of a faster and more reliable full fibre network.
The study, conducted by the consultancy firm Hatch, assesses the economic impact of CityFibre’s £29 million investment in Rotherham. Over a fifteen-year period, the report predicts several positive impacts, including £284 million in productivity and innovation gains, £62 million from an expanded workforce, £17 million in local authority efficiency savings, and a £145 million increase in housing value.
The construction of the network is also expected to create new jobs within CityFibre’s build partners and supply chain, primarily drawn from the local workforce, which will further contribute to the economic value generated during the rollout.
Hybrid and flexible working, facilitated by full fibre access at both home and office, will enable access to a broader talent pool for employers. In Rotherham, this expansion of the workforce is projected to result in £62 million in benefits, while the productivity boost from flexible working is estimated to exceed £16 million.
The report emphasizes the technological benefits of CityFibre’s network in Rotherham, highlighting its role in unlocking £675 million in growth value from 5G services, £259 million from the Internet of Things, and £119 million from Smart City initiatives, such as intelligent traffic management systems and street lighting.
On a national scale, the UK is expected to gain over £38 billion in potential economic benefits. The largest contributions come from productivity improvements and innovation, contributing more than £22 billion in economic value. Enhanced digital connectivity leads to increased business productivity and innovation, boosting turnover and fostering the creation of new businesses and business models.
Natalie Ward, Area Manager for Rotherham at CityFibre, expressed pride in the progress of their full fibre rollout in Rotherham. She highlighted that full fibre offers wide-ranging benefits, supporting growth while providing the foundation for innovation and investment. The report underscores these advantages and the tangible benefits of full fibre for Rotherham’s residents and businesses in the coming years.
