WE'VE never been more connected. The launch of 5G in Belfast at the end of May, as part of the initial six city pilot of the technology before UK wide roll out, heralds a new era of digital connectivity speed and reliability.
The impact of the introduction of 5G is expected to be 1,000 times that of the impact of 4G taking over from 3G. It is even being referred to as a revolution within the tech revolution.
The digital connectivity of commercial premises has been a key factor for tenants when considering new office space for some time, and for landlords and developers these boxes have to be ticked for their spaces to remain competitive and provide tenants with the technological edge they require.
Undoubtedly the market for commercial office premises is more occupier-led than at any time in history and occupiers now place connectivity firmly alongside location and cost.
However, city stakeholders must look outside the office doors now in order to cater to the technological needs of potential occupiers.
Considering the wider environment to understand exactly what is required for seamless connectivity experience means incorporating solutions at the earliest possible stage, which in many cases is that of planning.
This was the topic of debate at Belfast’s premier tech conference Digital DNA last week. The “Building a smart city: Future Planning” panel considered the challenges and opportunities of implementing technological improvements to Belfast’s infrastructure now, to prepare the city for the next technologies of the next decade.
Throughout the session there were many issues raised including ensuring continued occupier demand and economic growth while also considering the safety, security and privacy of the city populous.
From the lively debate one thing becoming clear; the term ‘Smart-City’ is a broad-brush term for a very intricate and complicated concept.
Smart buildings are already here with a good example in the city being Causeway Asset Management’s Chichester House; the first building in Belfast to obtain a platinum rating under the globally recognised WiredScore rating system.
As new developments and refurbishments of existing buildings are announced landlords will compete to meet the increasing technological demand of occupants. The importance of a ‘smart’ infrastructure to surround, support and connect the next wave of ‘smart buildings’ is essential to sell the whole city as a holistically ‘smart’ place, not just a collection of ‘smart’ pieces.
This means that as the Belfast Region City Deal rolls out, the investment of £850 million that is hoped to create up to 20,000 jobs and is predicted to focus on innovation and digital and physical infrastructure, it is crucial that we look at what is coming, and plan for the future.
Undoubtedly Belfast can become a leading digital city. We have the talent and now the opportunity. What will be most important is making the right choices so we ensure our infrastructure and environmental planning is robust enough to cope, but flexible enough to adapt to the increased demands that being a ‘smart’ city brings.
:: Declan Flynn is managing director at Belfast-based commercial property agency Lisney, which works on behalf of many of the north's most significant investors and developers as well as major retailers and businesses.
