We are delighted to announce that Oxfordshire County Council’s Digital Infrastructure Programme has won the Independent Networks Cooperative Association (INCA) Award for Best Public Sector or Community Project for our GigaHubs initiative!
The GigaHubs project has transformed digital connectivity across Oxfordshire by delivering gigabit-capable broadband to 192 rural public service sites—including schools, GP surgeries, libraries, and community centres. This effort is a shining example of public sector innovation and digital inclusion.
The Project Manager, Anna Miles, attended the INCA Summit Awards ceremony, which was a chance to celebrate excellence, innovation, and impact across the UK’s independent network sector.
Following a competitive procurement process, Neos Networks was appointed to deliver the infrastructure. Neos partnered with Openreach, Virgin Media Business, and Gigaclear to build and manage the network, leveraging its dark fibre expertise. This collaborative model ensured high-quality delivery and long-term sustainability.
Key achievements of the GigaHubs project include:
- 192 public service sites connected with full fibre broadband, significantly enhancing digital capabilities across the county.
- £69,619.08 annual savings on council connectivity costs by replacing leased lines with direct fibre internet services.
- £20,000 social value contribution secured through our agreement with Neos Networks, used to purchase 30 public computers for Oxford Westgate, Cowley, and Abingdon Libraries.
- Three years of paid internet access provided for the 55 connected community centres and village halls, funded by the Digital Infrastructure Programme.
- First-of-its-kind deployment in the UK, setting a precedent for future rural connectivity initiatives.
- Catalyst for commercial investment: the new infrastructure is expected to attract further private sector investment in rural areas, as the connected hubs offer a springboard for extending services to nearby homes and businesses.
The improved connectivity in community centres and village halls enables them to become ‘community working hubs’—offering enhanced services, health and social care support, and reducing the need for residents to travel for vital services. This was the first deployment of its kind in the UK.
The new infrastructure also lays the foundation for future smart services and encourages further commercial investment in rural Oxfordshire.
We’re proud that our work enhances rural connectivity and supporting our vision for a Smart County.
Learn more about the GigaHubs project here.