Digital Connectivity

Digital connectivity has never been more important for businesses, communities and public services. The Combined Authority’s goal is to deliver outstanding, accessible and inclusive digital connectivity.

Digital connectivity is essential for the prosperity of businesses, communities, and public services. The Combined Authority is committed to delivering outstanding, accessible, and inclusive digital connectivity across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.​ Building upon the successes of previous strategy delivery, the Digital Connectivity Strategy 2025-2029 aims to provide world-class digital infrastructure, foster innovation, and ensure digital inclusion for all residents and businesses in the region. This strategy is delivered through the Connecting Cambridgeshire, a multi-partner programme which continues to exceed government targets for technology and coverage. ​

Key Statistics

  • Gigabit-Capable Broadband Coverage: As of early 2025, gigabit-capable broadband coverage has reached 91.25% in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, surpassing both the national average of 83% and the UK Government’s target of 85% by the end of 2025. ​ We aim to further increase full-fibre broadband coverage to 99% by 2030, ensuring resilient, future-proof connectivity for residents and businesses.
  • Mobile Improvements: ​4G and 5G mobile coverage continues to expand across the region, with work underway to tackle rural and urban ‘not-spots’ and improve digital connectivity for transport corridors, including rail and roads. Mobile network upgrades are being supported through planning, infrastructure investment, and partnerships with industry leaders.
  • Project Gigabit Investment: The region is benefiting from in excess of £46 million of central government investment through Project Gigabit, this is currently in progress aiming to deliver full fibre to around 45,000 premises by 2028.
  • Digital Inclusion: We’re working to ensure that all residents have access to affordable connectivity, devices and digital skills training, to take full advantage of the opportunities and benefits of digital connectivity offered by the online world, supporting economic growth and social mobility.

Digital Connectivity Infrastructure

Reliable and high-speed mobile connectivity is essential for communities, businesses, and transport networks. The Combined Authority, working with Connecting Cambridgeshire, is actively supporting improvements to 4G and 5G coverage, ensuring better access for residents, businesses, and visitors across the region.

Efforts are focused on reducing mobile ‘not-spots’ by identifying and addressing areas with poor signal in both rural and urban locations. At the same time, work is underway to support the expansion of 5G, driving innovation in sectors such as education, healthcare, and smart innovation. To accelerate deployment, the strategy is also supporting planning and permitting processes to facilitate the rollout of mobile masts and small cell technology, helping to unlock investment, speed up infrastructure rollout, and future-proof mobile networks across the region.

Innovation

Emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and real-time data networks are also transforming transport, healthcare, and public services. The Connecting Cambridgeshire programme is leading efforts to trial and deploy innovative digital solutions, ensuring the region remains at the forefront of digital advancements.

Through targeted investment and collaboration with industry leaders, the region is pioneering the adoption of next-generation digital solutions, such as connected and autonomous mobility and AI-driven public services.

By maintaining a forward-thinking approach, the programme is supporting 5G innovation, smart infrastructure trials, and data-driven services to drive economic growth and improve public service delivery, and create a more sustainable, connected future for businesses and residents alike.

Digital Inclusion

The Combined Authority is committed to ensuring that everyone can benefit from digital connectivity. The Digital Inclusion Delivery Plan, delivered by Connecting Cambridgeshire, is tackling digital exclusion by improving access to devices, connectivity, and essential digital skills. Key initiatives include delivering digital skills training to help communities, businesses, and individuals fully participate in an increasingly digital world. And promoting affordable broadband access, including social tariffs and preparing for the Digital Switchover.

By bridging the digital divide, we are supporting economic growth, improving access to public services, and enhancing social mobility – ensuring no one is left behind.

Partnership

The 2025-2029 strategy builds upon the foundation of the multi-agency Connecting Cambridgeshire programme, hosted by Cambridgeshire County Council and led by the Combined Authority since 2017. This partnership has been instrumental in:

  • Accelerating gigabit broadband rollout and mobile connectivity improvements.
  • Driving inward investment, including £113.5 million in commercial investment from industry for digital infrastructure under the 2021-2025 strategy.
  • Collaborating with telecoms, local councils, and industry partners to deliver smart infrastructure and innovative connectivity solutions.

Future Developments

The Combined Authority is committed to integrating digital connectivity into major transport projects by incorporating ducting for future fibre expansion. Reducing cost disruption and carbon emissions. and enhancing 4G and 5G coverage through targeted planning and partnerships. These initiatives aim to enhance connectivity for drivers and passengers, providing data-enhanced travel choices. ​

By investing in cutting-edge digital infrastructure and fostering innovation, the Combined Authority is ensuring that Cambridgeshire and Peterborough remain at the forefront of digital connectivity, driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for all residents.

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