We led the creation of a fibre loop design, collaborating with public and private stakeholders to envisage new infrastructure connecting the region. The plan leveraged public assets and focused on key innovations like the thin layer, cooperative asset sharing, and digital exchanges – concepts that continue to underpin our projects to this day.
Key Innovations Developed:
- Thin Layer Model:
A cooperative model where infrastructure assets are shared while ownership is retained, allowing for wider collaborative use of digital networks at reduced costs - Digital Exchanges:
Neutral hubs that connect businesses and public services to high-capacity networks, promoting innovation in digital-tech clusters across the region - Dig-Once Stewardship:
Ensuring fibre-ready ducting is installed during construction projects, reducing future infrastructure costs and disruption caused by costly and unnecessary digs
Strategic Impact
The strategy aimed to stimulate economic growth by creating a high-capacity fibre backbone, enabling businesses and the public sector to transform and innovate. It leveraged the GTT transatlantic cable to position LCR as a digital gateway, while fostering collaboration across public bodies like the Combined Authority, LEP, and digital-tech SMEs.
Economic Modelling and Benefits
We provided detailed economic models showing how full-fibre infrastructure could lower costs for businesses and public facilities while driving innovation. The strategy laid the foundation for high-value jobs and economic transformation across the region.
Outcomes and Legacy
The LCR Digital Action Plan produced a framework for future actions, governance structures, and funding bids through the Local Full Fibre Networks (LFFN) programme. The innovations developed in this project—cooperative asset sharing, digital exchanges, and dig-once stewardship—remain influential in shaping LCR’s ongoing digital strategy.
Networks.coop was central to developing the strategy, fostering collaboration, and introducing innovative insights that continue to drive digital development in the region.
[Learn more about our strategic work in LCR: Link to more detailed resources or case studies?]