#91 Sunderland: Building a Smart City with Long-Term Vision and Digital Inclusion

In this episode, we are joined by Liz St. Louis, Director of Smart Cities and Enabling Services at the Sunderland City Council. Liz shares Sunderland’s ambitious journey toward becoming a Smart City, discussing the innovative “four-layer” approach that laid the foundation for city-wide connectivity and digital transformation. From pioneering autonomous vehicle projects to addressing the digital divide with free Wi-Fi and digital literacy initiatives, Liz reveals the critical role of partnerships, data-driven city management, and long-term planning in Sunderland's success.

 

Overview of the episode:

[00:00:06] Teaser Question: "Outside of its practical applications, what's the most fun or whimsical use of technology you've seen in Sunderland?"

[00:03:42] Our guest's background

[00:04:49] Sunderland's systematic approach to smart city development

[00:07:16] The role of partnerships in Sunderland's 20-year smart city journey

[00:09:48] Addressing the digital divide and ensuring digital inclusion

[00:13:27] Impact of free Wi-Fi and public trust in digital infrastructure

[00:17:18] Innovative use of autonomous vehicles in logistics for Nissan

[00:22:59] Challenges in scaling smart city pilots and securing funding

[00:26:27] Environmental monitoring and data-driven city management

[00:31:33] Roll with the Punches Segment

[00:33:51] Ending Question: "To you, what is a Smart City?"

 

Like our show? Remember to subscribe and rate it!

Want to join us for an episode? Fill out the form on our Podcast Page.

 

And for more insights, visit our BABLE Smart Cities Knowledge Hub