City of Wolverhampton residents and businesses are being invited to have their say on the draft Digital Wolverhampton Strategy for the city.

The draft strategy sets out the vision and aims for digital development in Wolverhampton and will act as a framework to update the city’s current Digital Infrastructure Strategy.

It will be delivered through a city partnership approach and will look to further develop three key areas.

• Wolverhampton is a Gigabit and Smart City – using futureproofed digital infrastructure, including full fibre broadband and 5G, to transform delivery of services and develop new applications to unlock the city’s potential.
• 100% digitally included Wolverhampton - ensuring all residents have the access to devices, connectivity and skills to take advantage of what the digital platform has to offer.
• Growing the digital economy and talent pipeline - building on the city’s futureproofed infrastructure to start and grow businesses, creating jobs for residents and meeting skills needs for the future.

The Council’s Cabinet Member for Digital City, Councillor Obaida Ahmed, said: “Improving digital infrastructure and capability is an important driver of economic and businesses growth - and will help increase employability for city residents.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has brought the importance of digital connectivity and skills even more into focus – and we must endeavour to ensure those without digital access or skills are not left behind. 

“City of Wolverhampton Council is committed to digital inclusion. It is fundamental, not a ‘nice to have’.

“Digital is the primary means of connection and access to essential services and digital skills are crucial for economic resilience and growth, providing a gateway to jobs, progression, social inclusion and cohesion. 

“Through the Digital Wolverhampton Strategy we want to give our businesses access to the latest cutting-edge technology and a homegrown digital-savvy workforce.

“This will be achieved through our strong partnership working across the city and it is important businesses and residents have their say on how the strategy evolves.”

To view the draft strategy and have your say please visit Digital Wolverhampton Draft Strategy - City of Wolverhampton Council - Citizen Space or email digital.wolves@wolverhampton.gov.uk.

The deadline for responses is Monday January 31, 2022, and the views will be evaluated by the council’s Strategic Digital Team and incorporated within the final strategy.