4.10 Digital connectivity

4.10.1

Plain English Version

Digital technology is key to how we will work, learn and socialise in the 21st century, so Birmingham city centre needs the digital infrastructure to support this change.  Install the right infrastructure and it will  help us be more competitive, attract well paid jobs and build a worldwide reputation for our digital skills.

Original Document

Digital technologies have been a key driver in influencing society and shaping 21st Century living. Digital opportunities will need a 21st Century telecommunication infrastructure to become the ‘norm’ for city centre development, and changes in working, learning and social patterns need to be incorporated in the future spatial design. This will need a city centre that is equipped for the growth in information, data access and communication associated with the 21st century knowledge society. The city needs a ‘connected’ infrastructure that will support the city’s international competitiveness, sustain existing growth and attract new high value businesses and establish itself as a leading and iconic digital city.

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4.10.2

Plain English Version

We think the city must have  digital information systems which tell you what you need to know when and where you need it.  These will help people navigate and understand the city in many new ways. They could use signs which change their messages, communication with people’s mobile phones and wider use of satellite navigation. A combination of methods can make it easier for people to find their way around the city,  make Birmingham  more interesting for visitors and cut down on congestion.

Original Document

It is essential that the city centre has interactive and intelligent real time information systems to navigate and explore the city by all modes and through physical wayfinding and legibility systems, variable message signage, mobile devices and satellite navigation systems. These will enable greater linkages between the various quarters within the city centre, provide a richer visitor experience and reduce vehicle congestion through managed intelligent information and navigation systems.

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4.10.3

Plain English Version

For this to work in the long term we have to build a new network of ducting throughout the city centre.  This will need to be good enough to allow Birmingham to have both wired and wirelesss digital communication a long time into the future; for generations of technology which have yet to be invented. This need to be available for transport, business development and innovation, open spaces such as public squares and parks and to new buildings.

This applies in everything we say in this plan so assume that it is integral to every option we suggest.

Original Document

In addition, we should ensure that new development is future proofed with suitable digital infrastructure to meet both existing and future digital and communication needs. This will require suitable ducting to enable a wired and wireless digital infrastructure capable of delivering next generation connectivity for transport, business development and innovation, open spaces such as public squares and parks and to new buildings and business premises. The concept of an underlying digital infrastructure is inherent in each of the options in this report.

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4.10.4

Plain English Version

A “Virtual Birmingham” is another useful idea. We could start with 3D digital representation of the City Centre to help city planners, developers, agencies and the public to plan and re-shape the city.  It will allow people to think about the impact of proposals.  It would help people who live and visit Birmingham find their way around the city, including offering them new ways to connect with what’s going on here.   It would encourage inward investment by acting as a showcase to attract national and international interest and open up opportunities to explore the art of the possible.

Original Document

The creation of a “Virtual Birmingham” is another valuable concept. Starting with a 3D representation of the City Centre, it would enable city planners, developers, stakeholders and the public to plan and visually re-shape the city centre and consider its impacts. It would enable citizens and both national and international visitors to view and navigate the city centre more effectively and interactively, providing a richer experience and engagement. It would encourage inward investment by acting as a showcase to attract national and international interest and open up opportunities to explore the art of the possible.

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4.10.5

Plain English Version

Households musn’t be left out. All new homes should be be connected to a fast and future proof digital network.

Original Document

Finally, in line with the concept of the flexible and adaptable home, all new households should be equipped with a technology infrastructure fit for 21st century living capable of delivering the information, entertainment and communications needs for families across all generations.

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