Local authority business case for sharing asset data through a digital platform

WLA is leading a project called the Outcomes Accelerator. This aim of this project is to make it easier to share data and information about the availability of assets in West London with wireless network operators to speed up deployments of 5G.

As part of this project, WLA is participating in a yearlong pilot (ending in March 2023), the Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Accelerator (DCIA) to support the implementation of digital asset management solutions for mapping and brokerage of publicly owned assets for the rollout of wireless communication networks.

The aim is to make transactions between public sector asset owners and telecommunications companies frictionless, lowering costs of site acquisition and accelerating the rollout of digital connectivity. This means residents and businesses will be able enjoy the benefits of new connectivity sooner including better healthcare, access to well paid jobs and safer, cleaner streets.

We are in a live pilot and benefits and business case information and data is becoming available over coming months. For the final stage of the project up until March 2023 we require external support to develop and finalise business cases and business models for sharing local authority asset data through a digital platform in West London. In addition, we need to prepare guidance to other public bodies. The guidance note for this project has been called a Blueprint. The blueprint guide authorities in the rest of London to adopt the technology, ways of working and know how developed at WLA.

The project envisages using an external platform provider to store and share data that is viewed by both MNOs and Councils. The platform will allow site finding, the selection and a transaction to be made on individual assets. In addition, DCMS are keen to explore the role of a 'convenor' of public bodies which can work across sub regional and regional geographies to support new deployments working with the platform.