Today, we are inviting experts in digital infrastructure to help us unlock the vast potential of the Thames Estuary. We want to commission a major study into the Estuary’s digital infrastructure potential and are seeking Expressions of Interest from potential partners who can deliver it.
We are ambitious about catalysing excellent digital infrastructure in the Thames Estuary and accelerating investment in the right areas for the benefit of residents, workers and visitors; this is key to our action plan, The Green Blue, launched in July last year.
Our digital approach needs to be multi-faceted. There are several data centres but not enough; cabling and digital connectivity is inconsistent; 5G is not fully understood and is largely a discussion around high streets; and we are not providing the skills and training close to where digital capacity could grow.
We need expertise to help us engage with the private sector and to understand and evaluate their ambitions. We want to understand how to digitally connect with communities and to ensure that we support inclusive growth across the Estuary. We are seeking guidance on what to do and when, for the most impactful end result.
We have a number of major opportunities in the coming years. The London Resort will be a major innovative tourist destination at Ebbsfleet; the introduction of the London Markets into Barking; and the many large-scale housing programmes such as at Thamesmead, Royal Docks and Barkingside. A strong digital infrastructure will be an indispensable part of these developments.
Inclusive growth is vital, looking at complex issues like education, housing and jobs, and making sure no-one is left behind. Every community needs to be able to take advantage of, and benefit from, the improvements in the area.
We are committed to driving growth; creating jobs, improving productivity and to do this we need to ensure that the right infrastructure is in place to make sure this unparalleled growth opportunity is delivered. We’re going to make this happen. We’re in a good place.
If digital infrastructure is your area of expertise, join us.
Expressions of interest can be made via London Portals between 04 January 2021 and 23:00 on 13 January 2021.
Please note this opportunity is now closed.