Boldyn Networks and ITS to deliver digital infrastructure across four London Boroughs

Boldyn Networks (Boldyn) together with ITS will build four high-capacity full fibre networks across the London Boroughs of Bromley, Lewisham, Merton, and Wandsworth.

This digital infrastructure project is being funded by the Mayor’s Strategic Investment Fund (SIF) and further utilises Boldyn’s 20-year concession with Transport for London (TfL) to deliver connectivity across the capital to benefit those who live, work and visit London. This partnership will enable ITS to gain access to Boldyn’s existing assets and infrastructure within the London Underground to support and manage the new full fibre networks.

Funded through London’s share of retained business rates, the SIF supports projects like this one – enhancing connectivity to drive long-term economic and productivity growth across the capital.  

Now in build, these new networks will boost internet accessibility for working in or visiting public sector buildings, including council offices, libraries, community centres and sheltered accommodation. Critical CCTV sites across all four boroughs will also be connected, strengthening modern surveillance services in high footfall areas, and enhancing public safety.

As a result, over 9,000 overlooked business premises in Bromley, Lewisham, Merton, and Wandsworth will be able to access gigabit-capable services through ITS’ network of ISP and reseller partners. This will extend ITS’ network coverage to all London Boroughs and will be in reach of 70% of the capital’s commercial premises.

The delivery of this new fibre infrastructure will unlock lasting social value by tackling digital exclusion, supporting the development of digital skills, and equipping community hubs with reliable connectivity – helping people to access the opportunities of the digital world.

Howard Dawber, Deputy Mayor of London for Business and Growth, said: “Access to reliable high speed broadband is key to improving public services, boosting local economies and creating safer, thriving communities across the capital.

“Backed by funding from the Mayor, this initiative will deliver much-needed digital infrastructure to local residents and businesses in London, supporting our mission to close the digital divide and deliver-long term growth as we work to build a better, fairer London for everyone.”

Paul Osborne, Chief Commercial Officer for the UK & Ireland at Boldyn Networks, said: “This project is a shining example of how innovative public-private partnerships can make grant funding go further to deliver exceptional results. Bringing seamless connectivity to the London Boroughs is a major focus of our work in the city. ITS’ existing footprint across London complements the scope of this initiative while leveraging our advanced network infrastructure in the London Underground. It aligns with our vision and commitment to full fibre access as the foundation for improved public services, safer communities, and thriving local economies.”

Daren Baythorpe, CEO of ITS, said: “Our work with Boldyn Networks will advance the digital ambitions of Bromley, Lewisham, Merton, and Wandsworth. The innovative use of London Underground’s assets under Boldyn’s concession agreement with TfL perfectly aligns with our reuse, ‘dig once’ and sustainability ethos. This project is set to transform local communities by delivering a platform to bridge the digital divide, attract inward investment, and deliver long-term value to the economy.”

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Dave Ferry
Chief Sales Officer

As Chief Sales Officer, Dave leads the sales strategy at ITS, driving growth and strengthening customer relationships. Overseeing commercial success across Partner Markets, Public Sector and Major Business, Dave uses his 20 years of telecoms experience to build high-performing teams and deliver innovative solutions that meet market demands.

Previously, Dave held senior roles at Virgin Media Business, leading successful teams in various market segments.

Kevin McNulty
Strategy Director

Kevin leads the Strategy team in ITS, comprising the core functions of network Investment (including M&A), regulation, public affairs, product management and marketing. With over 4 years’ experience within the leadership team of ITS, Kevin has played a pivotal role in shaping the business direction as it has grown to be a leading provider of B2B wholesale connectivity.

Prior to ITS, Kevin has a long background in the industry, having held senior positions in BT, Virgin Media, KCOM and NTT – as well as a period spent in consultancy.

Claire Davies
People & Culture Director

Claire is the People and Culture Director for ITS, responsible for ensuring we provide a great place to work, with amazing people who are happy, productive, and engaged.

A CIPD qualified HR professional with previous industry experience at Amey, as well as more recent experience in a number of small businesses, Claire is passionate about putting people first in order to grow the business.

Mike Goodwin
Chief Technology Officer

Mike is responsible for all technical, operations, customer service and security within ITS. Using his degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, and MBA from Manchester Business School, Mike focuses on how ITS can introduce and support complex solutions designed to create customer-focused teams that ensure exceptional experience. On top of his extensive career history spanning TalkTalk, Hyperoptic and Fibre Nation, Mike is a Chartered Engineer and Fellow of the IET.

Charlie Versi
Chief Operating Officer

Charlie leads ITS’s end-to-end operational delivery, with a focus on service excellence and delivering an outstanding experience for both partners and their business customers. His appointment will help build on the company’s strong foundations – driving transformation, quality, and innovation and using them as key enablers of continued growth.

Daren Baythorpe
Chief Executive Officer

Daren is a dynamic leader who drives the strategy, growth and direction of ITS. Daren has significant utility / telecoms sector experience and has held several board-level leadership and advisory positions for a number of organisations including Severn Trent Water and BT. He served on the Board of Openreach, where he held executive responsibilities as Director of the Customer Service Division, Director for Field Engineering then latterly serving as Managing Director of the Business Division.

Daren also regularly advises and collaborates with government and other regulatory / telecoms bodies on sector-related issues. His in-depth knowledge and understanding of the requirements of operators and high capacity data users, through his vast experience across the industry, mean that ITS is thriving under his leadership

Kevin Gaskell
Chairman

Kevin leads our board and is responsible for giving strategic advice and counsel, as well as attracting and driving investment. Kevin is recognised as one of the most successful leaders of his generation, having led iconic brands such as Porsche, Lamborghini and BMW. A highly experienced serial entrepreneur and private equity chairman, he has led multi-billion-pound global organisations; and also founded startups such as Epyx Limited, building it up to become the market leader for automotive e-commerce solutions.

Kevin has received multiple accolades; highlights include making the ‘UK’s top 40 leaders under 40’ list, chairing the ‘best UK private equity investment of the year’, and being a founder of award-winning start-up companies across the globe.