Four London boroughs—Bromley, Lewisham, Merton, and Wandsworth—are set to receive a significant broadband upgrade as internet provider ITS utilises Transport for London (TfL) infrastructure to roll out a new full fibre network. This initiative is backed by funding from the Mayor’s Strategic Investment Fund (SIF) and leverages Boldyn Networks' existing 20-year concession with TfL, which was originally established to provide mobile coverage within the London Underground. Through this agreement, ITS gains access to infrastructure assets both underground and at street level, including cabling ducts within TfL-managed traffic lights, facilitating the deployment of gigabit-capable broadband to support various public services.

The new networks are currently under construction and aim to bolster internet accessibility across public sector buildings such as council offices, libraries, community centres, and sheltered accommodation. Additionally, CCTV sites throughout these boroughs will be connected to the fibre network, enhancing public safety through improved digital infrastructure. According to Howard Dawber, Deputy Mayor of London for Business and Growth, reliable high-speed broadband is fundamental for improving public services, boosting local economies, and fostering safer communities across the capital. He emphasised that this project is a crucial step towards closing the digital divide and supporting long-term economic growth in London.

This development is part of a wider effort under the Mayor of London’s Connected London programme, which seeks to enhance digital connectivity across multiple boroughs to benefit residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Boldyn Networks is also actively working with other boroughs such as Richmond upon Thames, and Kingston town centre, in partnership with the Greater London Authority (GLA) and TfL, to improve fibre connectivity and digital public services. The Kingston project, for example, slated to begin in April 2025, will similarly upgrade the borough’s digital infrastructure, including local CCTV systems, underlining the capital’s focused investment in digital public safety and service delivery.

Complementing these fibre rollouts, Boldyn Networks has recently announced a partnership with G.Network to expand London’s high-speed fibre network further. This collaboration aims not only to improve internet speeds but also to enhance mobile coverage, including 4G and 5G connectivity within the Underground and on the Elizabeth line. Such efforts align closely with the Mayor’s 'Smarter London Together' roadmap, which prioritises advanced connectivity and the optimisation of city services to help make London a leading global smart city.

In conjunction with these infrastructure upgrades, the Mayor’s Connected London programme is also investing £30 million to modernise over 300 CCTV cameras across London, improving the quality of footage and thereby public safety. This infrastructure enhancement supports local authorities, TfL, and the Metropolitan Police by enabling safer urban environments and stronger evidential support in criminal proceedings.

Together, these initiatives illustrate a comprehensive approach to upgrading London’s digital backbone, integrating high-speed broadband, improved mobile coverage, and enhanced public safety systems. Leveraging existing transport infrastructure, strategic funding, and public-private partnerships, the capital is making substantial strides toward a more connected, safer, and economically vibrant future.

📌 Reference Map:

Source: Noah Wire Services