A new £18.8 million initiative to accelerate the adoption of advanced wireless technology across North Wales has been approved by the Ambition North Wales statutory body. The project, funded by the region’s £240 million Growth Deal—a joint investment from the UK and Welsh governments—will focus on strengthening digital infrastructure to enhance economic growth and innovation.
Over the next four years, the project will establish a capital grant scheme to support both private and public sector organizations in adopting advanced wireless technologies. This includes investments in 5G mobile private networks, 4G/5G distributed antenna systems (DAS), Wi-Fi 6/7 networks, and Industry 4.0 applications.
The initiative is a key component of Ambition North Wales’s broader digital connectivity program, which aims to ensure affordable digital access throughout the region. It is expected to support up to 200 businesses and public sector users, creating between 315 and 380 new jobs and generating an estimated £130 million to £158 million in additional gross value added (GVA) by 2036. The program also seeks to leverage an additional £37 million to £46 million in private investment.
Nia Jeffreys, lead member for Ambition North Wales’s digital connectivity program and leader of Gwynedd Council, stated, “Advanced wireless technologies are essential for boosting productivity, innovation, and competitiveness across North Wales. The approval of this full business case means we can now support organizations across the region to invest in digital infrastructure suitable for the future, which will benefit businesses and public services and create new jobs.”
Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, highlighted the program’s role in future-proofing the region. “The approval of this investment marks a key moment for North Wales’ digital future. Advanced wireless technologies will not only strengthen connectivity across our towns and rural communities but unlock new opportunities for innovation and economic growth.”
Dame Nia Griffith, Wales Office Minister, emphasized the collaboration’s impact. “To boost productivity, it is vital that businesses and communities have the right digital infrastructure. This investment from the UK and Welsh Governments is another step forward in our central mission to kickstart economic growth, create good jobs, and unlock opportunities for people across Wales.”
