A pioneering broadband project that has transformed internet access for tens of thousands of homes and businesses across North Yorkshire could soon be rolled out on a national scale.
Proposals to create a new council-owned company, designed to build on the success of the county’s broadband programme, are due to be considered by North Yorkshire Council’s executive in January.
Over the past decade, more than £100 million has been invested in faster broadband across the county through the Superfast North Yorkshire programme, delivered by NYnet and overseen by the council. The scheme has helped tackle the digital divide in rural communities that previously struggled to access the same level of connectivity available in towns and cities.
To date, more than 200,000 households and businesses in North Yorkshire have benefited from the programme.
Under the new proposals, a separate company would be created to focus on existing public sector contracts within the county, while freeing up NYnet to expand its commercial operations and attract new customers across the country. A particular focus is expected to be on winning contracts in the education sector.
A report going before the council’s executive on Tuesday, January 6, outlines plans to launch the new company, which would manage services such as public sector connectivity, allowing NYnet to grow its national footprint.
North Yorkshire Council leader Cllr Carl Les, who sits on the board of NYnet, said the organisation has become a national leader in improving digital infrastructure.
He said: “The work of NYnet has led the way nationally to introduce far greater internet connectivity for homes, businesses and the public sector. It has placed North Yorkshire at the forefront of the digital revolution.
“These proposals represent an exciting opportunity to grow the business nationally, generate greater profits and deliver an even better return for North Yorkshire taxpayers at a time when councils are under significant financial pressure.”
NYnet currently manages a range of public sector contracts, including the council’s public Wi-Fi service and CCTV network, as well as providing improved connectivity to more than 300 schools, NHS trusts and North Yorkshire Police. It also works with private sector clients, including Boroughbridge-based logistics firm Reed Boardall.
The council’s executive member for Open to Business, Cllr Mark Crane, said reliable broadband was now essential to everyday life.
“The importance of having access to decent broadband cannot be underestimated,” he said. “These proposals give us the chance to expand NYnet’s work and deliver high-quality services to many more customers beyond North Yorkshire.”
NYnet recorded a £500,000 profit in the last financial year on a turnover of £3 million, with turnover expected to rise to £3.5 million this year. The creation of a new company is intended to boost profits further.
One of the organisations to benefit from improved connectivity is Wensleydale School in Leyburn, which signed a contract with NYnet 18 months ago. The improved reliability has enabled teachers to make greater use of technology in lessons, including video streaming and digital music software, while also supporting students with exam access requirements.
Headteacher Julia Polley said the impact had been significant.
“We are in a rural location and connectivity has always been a real issue,” she said. “Since working with NYnet, it has transformed the way we operate. Staff now have confidence that technology will work in the classroom, and when there is an issue, NYnet understands the school environment and responds quickly.”
Councillors are expected to consider the proposals early in the new year, with a decision on the future expansion of the broadband programme to follow.
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