Issue - meetings

(i)              That the appointment of ITS Technology Group as a delivery partner for the delivery of a fibre network in the Newcastle Town Deal area, be approved.

(ii)             That the Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the relevant portfolio holder be authorised to sign any such agreements as may be necessary to enable the deployment of a fibre network in the Newcastle Town Deal area and to establish an Indefeasible Right of Use agreement with the selected provider.  

(iii)           That a further report be received to consider the option to invest in further provision as part of the Council’s commercialisation programme.

(iv)           That the Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the relevant portfolio holder be authorised to take forward development of the digital hubs in our communities and is authorised to sign any agreements that are necessary between the respective parties to enable their development.

The Portfolio Holder for Finance Town Centres and Growth introduced a report providing an update on the procurement of a partner for the delivery of a fibre network in the Newcastle Town Deal Area and sought authority to appoint the selected delivery partner.

The deployment of a fibre network would bring substantial benefits, enabling businesses and the community-digital connectivity in areas that were not being served by the commercial market or where there was potential to overcome digital exclusion in local communities.

The Leader welcomed this which would cover the Newcastle Town Deal Area urban wards.  It was key to increase connectivity in a sustainable way.  The Town Deal money was an opportunity to get a good, fast internet connection for residents and businesses.  Using Community Centres as hubs could give them a new lease of life and would also create connectivity in the local area.

There was a confidential report attached to this item that would be discussed in closed session at the end of he meeting.

Resolved:                (i)      That the appointment of ITS Technology Group as

a delivery partner for the delivery of a fibre network in the Newcastle Town Deal area, be approved.

(ii)             That the Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the relevant portfolio holder be authorised to sign any such agreements as may be necessary to enable the deployment of a fibre network in the Newcastle Town Deal area and to establish an Indefeasible Right of Use agreement with the selected provider. 

(iii)           That a further report be received to consider the option to invest in further provision as part of the Council’s commercialisation programme.

(iv)           That the Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the relevant portfolio holder be authorised to take forward development of the digital hubs in our communities and is authorised to sign any agreements that are necessary between the respective parties to enable their development.

Watch the debate here