The first event of its kind hosted by Swansea Bay City Deal’s Digital Infrastructure Programme has hailed a new digital era.
The event was attended by industry experts and service providers as well as Welsh and UK Government representatives. It outlined how large investments into digital innovations and better connectivity will bring continued prosperity to the Swansea Bay City Deal region, which spans Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot.
Speakers throughout the day reiterated the need for continued collaborations between the private and public sector to maximise the use of technology to enhance the health, wellbeing and social care outcomes for communities as well as drive the potential growth of those sectors.
With plenty of local authority staff present, the first panel focused on the journey to 5G and beyond, with Pete Hollebon from Virgin Media O2 saying: “You are the gatekeepers, and we want to connect to you to improve both the social environment and business prosperity. This is just the start and part of building a longer relationship to ensure better connectivity.”
With a full capacity, remote attendees were actively encouraged to interact with the day’s discussions and presentations to ensure their voices were heard.
Gareth Jones, Chief Digital Officer for Carmarthenshire County Council, who led the day’s programme said:
“It was fantastic to see how many people in the region are taking an interest in the digital developments around them and learning that they are as much of a part of progressive process as anyone else.
“Hearing their thoughts and ideas today was extremely encouraging and I hope this will spark an enthusiasm to learn more about the benefits of better digital connectivity, as this will only allow our region to thrive further, in the coming years.”
Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council and Chair of the Swansea Bay City Deal Joint Committee, who closed the event with his Vision for a truly digital Swansea, said:
“Gathering such a variety of industry experts and government representatives to cover the valuable topics that influence the region’s digital future is a great opportunity. Not only will it promote healthy collaborations that will drive digital infrastructure projects forward but it ensures that everyone is continuously included in the dialogue of how to shape a digital future in the Swansea Bay City Deal region.”
The live stream of the day and full speakers lists with presentations will be made available for everyone to view via their local authority websites in the coming days.
