Operator and provider of full fibre solutions ITS has won a £3.5m dark fibre contract to enhance public sector connectivity across Carmarthenshire.
The funding, from the Swansea Bay City Deal’s digital infrastructure programme, will see ITS moving into South Wales for the first time.
The investment will serve 41 dark fibre connections across 34 public sector sites in Carmarthenshire, connecting education, health and local authorities. The project includes key partners in Carmarthenshire County Council, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Hywel Dda University Health Board, and Coleg Sir Gar.
The network will connect sites and data centres to store, move, and share large quantities of data securely at ultra-high speed. The aim is to improve the collaboration between these organisations, enabling them to use advanced technology and applications such as AI, and share and analyse data in real-time.
Separate from the contract win ITS will also invest in a wholesale full fibre network that mirrors the dark fibre route and beyond to pass more than 2,800 businesses. The private investment will enable access to gigabit-capable services.
Daren Baythorpe, chief executive of ITS said: “We are thrilled to have been successful in this tender process which will see us play a pivotal role in transforming the area’s digital landscape. As our first public sector contract in South Wales, this is a fantastic milestone for us and one that will provide the foundation for a connected future for the region, driving innovation and prosperity for the entire community.
“ITS has a strong track record of working with the public sector to deliver connectivity solutions that benefit local businesses and communities, putting social value at the heart of each project. This type of innovation aligns perfectly with the digital infrastructure programme’s objectives, providing a platform for economic growth and bridging the digital divide.”
Philip Hughes, cabinet member for organisation and workforce at Carmarthenshire County Council said: “This announcement marks a significant advancement in equipping our public sector services to meet future demands. By aligning with the digital infrastructure programme’s objectives, this project will underpin the expanding needs of digital services in our communities, which rely on having effective, secure, and high-capacity infrastructure.”
ITS has strengthened its regional presence with the appointment of its client director for the public sector Stephen Dobynne, joining the private sector advisory board of the South West Wales Corporate Joint Committee.
