Smart and Connected South Warwickshire

or communities. Policy ID.8 Smart and Connected South Warwickshire In South Warwickshire, a smart and connected approach will support the efficient operation of infrastructure, enable better service delivery, and facilitate more coordinated and responsive planning across places, services and communities. This includes the use of data and digital technologies to support economic growth, environmental sustainability and improved quality of life. This policy applies across both urban and rural areas, recognising the importance of high-quality digital connectivity and smart infrastructure in reducing inequalities in access to services and supporting rural communities. Development proposals will be expected to provide high-quality digital infrastructure in a manner proportionate to the scale, type and context of development and will be supported where they: • Provide access to full fibre broadband infrastructure and reliable wired and wireless networks, installed at the earliest stage of development • Include suitable ducting, chambers and other enabling infrastructure to support network installation, maintenance and future upgrades, minimising disruption. • Support open access infrastructure that is available and affordable to all users, including residents, businesses and public services. • Demonstrate that digital infrastructure has been planned alongside other utilities and encourage the sharing of assets, such as ducts and networks, to reduce duplication and environmental impact. • Where appropriate, integrate digital connectivity with other systems, including energy, transport and environmental infrastructure, such as electric vehicle charging, smart mobility and energy efficient technologies. • Support infrastructure and systems that can operate effectively across administrative boundaries, while having regard to data security, privacy and appropriate data governance. Policy Justification 3.3.2 National policy highlights the importance of advanced, reliable and high-quality digital connectivity in supporting sustainable economic growth, social wellbeing and effective infrastructure planning. The National Planning Policy Framework (2024) (paragraph 119, Section 10: Supporting high quality communications) requires planning policies and decisions to support the expansion of electronic communications networks next generation mobile technology and full fibre broadband connections. It also requires that policies should set out how high-quality digital infrastructure, providing access to services from a range of providers, is expected to be delivered and upgraded over time. In addition, national policy recognises the role of infrastructure in supporting sustainable development, including the transition to a low carbon economy, the efficient use of resources, and the delivery of inclusive and accessible services. 3.3.3 Digital connectivity is a key enabler of these objectives, supportive innovation in areas such as smart energy systems, sustainable transport and service delivery. Aligning with the British Standards Institution Smart City Framework ensures that digital infrastructure is embedded within a broader, integrated approach to place making. This framework promotes the coordinated use of data and technology improve outcomes for communities, supporting more efficient, resilient and adaptable places. 3.3.4 Overall, the policy seeks to ensure that development across South Warwickshire, both urban and rural, benefits from high quality digital connectivity and integrated smart infrastructure, supporting sustainable growth, reducing inequalities in access to services, and aligning with policy objectives as set