The item seeks a decision to replace the council’s core data network hardware in line with the Technology Strategy.
The council’s current data network was designed around the provision of a public sector network (PSN) nine years ago. The network infrastructure was underpinned by open public networks provided by City Fibre and Openreach. 85% of Kirklees residents now have gigabit-capable network connectivity in their homes because of the council’s previous investment.
The core network hardware needs to be replaced to continue to provide resilient and available infrastructure for the next seven years in line with the ambition in the Technology Strategy. The core network underpins services across Kirklees and will link the town centres of Huddersfield and Dewsbury via private fibre to provide ultra-fast connectivity between both locations.
The data network contract provides a managed Public Sector Network (PSN) compliant service to over 200 corporate sites and 8000 users.
Background papers:
Previous decision regarding capital refresh budget for IT at Cabinet 14th June 2022:https://democracy.kirklees.gov.uk/documents/s46405/IT%20Capital%20-%20Cabinet%20Report%20005.pdf
Decision type: Key
Reason Key: Expenditure>£500,000 and affects2 or more wards;
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Wards affected: (All Wards);
Notice of proposed decision first published: 12/10/2023
Decision due: 14 Nov 2023 by Cabinet
Lead member: Portfolio Holder for Corporate
Lead director: Strategic Director for Corporate Strategy, Commissioning and Public Health
Department: Corporate
Contact: Terence Hudson, Head of Technology Email: terence.hudson@kirklees.gov.uk.
Consultation process
There is ongoing engagement in the delivery of the Technology Strategy with officers and councillors, including Scrutiny, which includes the continued resilience of the data network. This has included conversation about the options open to the council at this point and the impact for partners and the public. Details will be provided in the report.
The Council’s Technology Strategy Board and the Executive Team of senior officers has been consulted on the approach and provided their support for the decision. Cllr Paul Davies, Portfolio Holder for Corporate is also supportive.
Members/Officers Involved: Cllr Paul Davies, Portfolio Holder for Corporate Rachel Spencer-Henshall, Strategic Director for Corporate Strategy, Commissioning and Public Health Andy Simcox, Service Director for Strategy and Innovation Terence Hudson, Head of Technology Julie Muscroft, Service Director for Legal, Governance and Commissioning Isabel Brittain, Service Director – Finance (S151 Officer)