Research and Innovation Fibre Ring (RIFR)

Brighton City Council launched the Research and Innovation Fibre Ring (RIFR) project to lay municipally controlled fibre-optic cables linking key digital sites across the city. This initiative was designed to foster digital innovation, create strategic and community wealth-building opportunities, and reduce reliance on infrastructure owned by multinational companies.

The RIFR project is part of a broader collaboration with Cooperative Network Infrastructure (CNI), a partnership that brings together public and private sector organisations to create and share digital infrastructure across Tameside, Blackpool, Manchester, and Sussex. The project’s unique model allows co-operatives of locally owned digital businesses to access and commercialise the new fibre network.

CJ Founds Associates

Scope of work

Scope of Work
CJ Founds Associates, acting as the NEC4 Project Manager and design lead, supported Brighton City Council in delivering a 12.5km municipally owned fibre network. This new infrastructure connects key digital hubs and cultural landmarks, including the Brighton Dome, Brighton Tech College, and the Fusebox. The RIFR project also supports:

  • Upgraded 5G Test-Beds: Deployment at the Fusebox and Brighton Dome enables local businesses to experiment with and learn about 5G technology, particularly in arts and cultural settings.
  • Community Engagement: In collaboration with Wired Sussex, the project engages local communities to help them access and benefit from new digital opportunities.

To ensure the project remained within budget, strategic adjustments were made to the delivery approach while maintaining its transformative goals.

Funding and Partnerships
The RIFR programme received funding through the Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and benefitted from partnerships with CNI and Wired Sussex. This innovative collaboration bridges the gap between public infrastructure and private-sector innovation, providing locally controlled, accessible digital connectivity.

CJ Founds Associates

Outcomes

  • Strategic Connectivity: Municipally controlled fibre links strategic digital sites across Brighton, ensuring high-speed connectivity for public sector locations and cultural institutions.
  • Digital Business Empowerment: Locally owned digital businesses gain access to fibre infrastructure, enabling them to innovate without relying on multinational providers.
  • Community Wealth-Building: The project supports local economic growth by enhancing digital skills and opportunities through partnerships with organisations like Wired Sussex.
  • 5G and Arts Innovation: The upgraded 5G test-beds at cultural venues like the Brighton Dome enable creative experimentation with cutting-edge technologies.

The RIFR project exemplifies Brighton City Council’s commitment to fostering innovation, supporting the arts, and building a sustainable and locally controlled digital future.

Can we do the same for you?

Contact the CJ Founds Associates team and see how we can help with your project.