£5m boost sees Sherwood Forest go digital
In a major boost for the region’s visitor economy, Sherwood Forest has been awarded just under £5 million in Government funding as part of a series of trials that will help rural areas benefit from the potential of modern technology.
The forest’s visitor experience is set to be transformed via a combination of cutting-edge apps and virtual and augmented reality on 5G networks. A virtual Robin Hood will tell the history of the medieval forest and new robotic environmental management will be trialled. The health of the forest will also be monitored in real time.
The ambitious scheme will also investigate business models that can enable operators to boost rural connectivity and create applications with the potential for commercial development.
The “5G Connected Forest” project has secured a £4,975,948 share of a £35 million pot released by the Government to nine rural and industrial schemes across the UK, with Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden revealing the full list of recipients today (20 February).
ISPB will act as commercial and business support partners for the project.
Councillor Kay Cutts, leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “This project will be front and centre of retelling the story of Robin Hood to future generations. It will be situated in the ancient royal forest of Sherwood, which has been wooded since the end of the last Glacial Period. There is no better opportunity to trial 5G in a forest setting anywhere else in the UK – not just for the area’s geography, but for its rich and fascinating history.
“I see this project as the start of a journey that will truly see Nottinghamshire on the regional, national and international tourism and environment management maps; as well as providing us with the opportunity to build the digital skills and opportunities of our residents and businesses.”
