Digital Salford, the collaboration of key stakeholders in the City of Salford, has published its new Digital Strategy today, which sets out intentions for area to become an internationally recognised connected digital city.
The plans include the launch of MediaCityUK’s first Smart City Accelerator.
Sponsored by MediaCityUK and CBRE, the accelerator will be based at The Landing from next year and will be the first of its kind in the region.
Its aim to encourage and support innovation companies who are looking to develop and demonstrate smart solutions for both build and environmental management.
Salford, home of one of the first operational 5G networks in the UK earlier this year saw Vodafone setting up its Innovation Hub at The Landing in MediaCityUK, providing entrepreneurs and start-ups access to 5G resources, and Internet of Things (IoT) technology.
Stephen Wild, Managing Director of MediaCityUK, said: “MediaCityUK is a unique and super-connected creative, media and digital hub which is continually experimenting and evolving in exciting new ways.
“We are already home to the UK’s first immersive 5G hub and we’re now ready to unlock the full potential of MediaCityUK as a smart urban environment. Our latest accelerator programme, focused on Smart City infrastructure, is just the beginning of what we have planned.’
Jon Corner, Chief Digital Officer for the City of Salford, added: “Before we can truly consider how such smart technology can improve the quality of life for all people across Salford, we have to find ways to connect all of our physical spaces and communities.
“Once this bedrock and these infrastructure models are in place then we can develop new services and co-design these within our communities.”
City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “Our Digital Strategy is wholly people-focused with a strong emphasis on skills, health and safer, cleaner communities.
“The coming together of key institutions as “Digital Salford” with one central vision is an important step in achieving the ambition to connect the whole city and ensure that everyone can benefit from the digital revolution.
“I’m proud that Salford is leading the way with its Smart City agenda and supporting Greater Manchester’s Industrial Strategy to be a leading city of innovation and industrial collaboration.”