Roll out of ultra-fast broadband to Bradford begins in a move analysts say could raise cost of city's housing by millions

The £75m private investment from CityFibre is predicted by analysts to improve productivity and raise the value of homes.

Construction work has officially commenced in East Bowling, with the rest of the city set to follow over the next four years. Network Plus is delivering the construction programme on CityFibre’s behalf.

According to research from economic consultancy Regeneris, full-fibre connectivity will have a major impact in Bradford over the next 15 years. It shows that up to £136m could be added to the value of local homes, while Smart City initiatives could add as much as £95m locally.

Access to full fibre could also unlock £69m in business productivity and innovation, while a further £40m in growth could be driven from new business start-ups, with enhanced connectivity making it easier and less expensive to set up base and run efficiently.

Kim Johnston, city manager for Bradford, said: “Bradford is one step closer to becoming a Gigabit City with the commencement of work to install state-of-the-art digital infrastructure across the city.

“The first homes will soon be able to benefit from full fibre, unlocking access to all the latest entertainment and services at gigabit speeds, with the peace of mind that comes from a reliable connection for seamless homeworking.

“Bradford is one of the youngest cities in the country and CityFibre’s full-fibre network will be vital in ensuring Bradford has a resilient and dynamic economy for years to come.”