Plain English Version
Connectivity – Birmingham has problems that it must solve, especially making places accessibile to all, travel around the city cente, digital (computer and other technology) connectivity and its transport and other links with other cities such as London.
Original Document
Connectivity – Birmingham must address critical issues, including accessibility, internal mobility, digital connectivity and connections and its relationships with London and other major centres of population and business.
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.
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.
Plain English Version
What can we do to make the area along the A38 (Bristol Road) nicer for people who live, work and visit there? How can we connect this area better with other parts of the city?
Original Document
What investments and environmental measures can be taken to make the city centre’s street network including the A38 corridor more attractive to residents, visitors and workers? What should be done to improve the connections to the wider city centre?