The UK's digital sector is built on essential physical infrastructure that underpins its growth. Data centres, for example, which drive the storage and processing of vast amounts of information, rely on robust high-voltage power routes to ensure continuous operation. While internet speeds and mobile connectivity are crucial for users, it is the foundational infrastructure that supports the sector's expansion and innovation. Ultimately, all of this infrastructure is maintained by people and businesses working in the data infrastructure sector. Explore more on connectivity, data centres, data infrastructure, and high voltage power routes, below.
Good progress has been made in the rollout of superfast broadband. Superfast broadband is widely available across the country, but there are notable gaps in rural areas, such as parts of the Highlands and Devon. Gigabit broadband is less widespread, though major cities enjoy around 90% availability.
Data centres, the backbone of the digital sector, are clustered in key business hubs like Slough, East London, and Manchester, driven by energy availability and proximity to business demand. These centres, along with the UK’s high voltage power routes, form the foundation for industries like AI, cloud computing, and IoT. The areas surrounding data centres, particularly in cities such as Glasgow, Leeds and Manchester also see a strong presence of data infrastructure businesses, creating a network that maintains and powers the digital sector.
