Work started to bring ultrafast broadband to schools and libraries
24 January 2017
Public buildings in Aberdeen are set to receive a 21st Century boost from connection to the transformational Gigabit CityFibre network.
Delivered in partnership with Capita as part of the Scotland-wide SWAN programme, CityFibre are now expanding their existing network to provide pure fibre connectivity to over 100 schools, libraries and offices.
The project will deliver cost savings and improvements to digital systems as well as the speed and strength of W-Fi connectivity.
The new digital infrastructure will also provide game-changing technology for many city schools who have adopted digital learning as part of their curriculum.
Aberdeen City Council Finance, Policy and Resources convener Councillor Willie Young said: “Aberdeen has fast been emerging as one of the most impressive Gigabit Cities in the UK thanks to an innovative and well established partnership between the private and public sector.
“Further investment in this infrastructure throughout 2017 will create an extra 30km of fibre network, positioning Aberdeen among the best connected public sector facilities in the country.
“By partnering with CityFibre, we can create a leading digital infrastructure which not only makes a significant statement to the global business community but will allow our citizens to access it in public buildings.
“In particular, the network will make an incredible difference to our young people in schools.
“Digital learning has real benefits in that it allows our pupils to self-learn by being creative with their subject matter. It is absolutely crucial that schools are equipped with the best network capabilies to allow this learning to continue and develop."
James McClafferty, CityFibre’s City Development Manager in Scotland, said: “Transforming Aberdeen into a Gigabit City has been a truly collaborative process, working with a range of strategic partners to enable access to next-generation digital connectivity for businesses, organisations and public sites across the city.
“This next phase delivered in partnership with Capita and Aberdeen City Council will provide essential new communications infrastructure for the city’s hard working public services as well as a future-proof alternative to aging, capacity constrained copper networks.
“This is a long-term solution that will support the city as data usage and storage needs continue to grow.”
CityFibre is also developing Gigabit City projects in Edinburgh and Glasgow as well as throughout England, with plans to launch additional cities later in 2017.
For more information about CityFibre’s Aberdeen Gigabit City project, visit:www.cityfibre.com/aberdeen