UK public sector networks lag in readiness for smart spaces adoption

New research has shown that the UK public sector is currently unprepared for the widespread adoption of smart space technologies, with less than a third of its networks considered ready to support such advancements.

Smart space readiness

According to TalkTalk Business, only 31% of public sector IT leaders believe their organisations' networks are fully equipped to handle smart spaces-environments enabled by interconnected technologies designed to make buildings more responsive and efficient. Despite 88% of public sector IT leaders being familiar with the concept of smart spaces, the research highlights a significant gap between awareness and practical readiness.

The research surveyed 362 full-time IT professionals across both public and private sectors, assessing current network infrastructure and ambitions for adopting smart spaces. Local government entities are furthest behind, with only 19% reporting that their networks are ready, while the NHS leads at 39%. Higher education and housing associations reported readiness at 33% and 31% respectively.

NHS and local government contrast

The findings reveal a substantial gap between different public sector segments. The NHS demonstrates the highest preparedness for smart spaces, yet even here, fewer than four in ten leaders consider their networks fit for purpose. Local government's readiness stands at less than one in five, highlighting the sector's need for additional support and investment.

Across all public sector organisations, the ability to access the wider UK network - often referred to as the 'last mile' into buildings - is also an area where confidence is lacking. Only 36% of respondents believe current infrastructure is robust enough. This underlines the need for urgent upgrades at both local and national levels to avoid missing out on expected gains from smart spaces in efficiency and productivity.

Modernisation efforts and private sector comparison

The public sector is only marginally behind the private sector in this area, with 34% of private organisations saying their networks are fully ready. Despite these challenges, 53% of public sector bodies have already started upgrading their networks, although the research suggests this is not yet sufficient for full smart space adoption, particularly for advanced technologies such as SD-WAN and cellular IoT.

Barriers to smart space adoption

Budget constraints emerged as the most significant barrier, cited by 57% of local authorities and 64% of NHS representatives. Expertise is also in short supply, with 67% of higher education respondents highlighting this as a major obstacle. Almost half (46%) of all public sector IT leaders pointed to difficulty in finding the right service provider as a further complication, suggesting a knowledge gap regarding available solutions.

The survey's findings point to a need for greater education and awareness throughout the public sector, enabling staff to make informed decisions about network improvements necessary for smart space deployment.

Potential benefits and sector outlook

Despite ongoing challenges, there is optimism about the potential benefits of smart spaces. The NHS expects efficiency improvements (55%), while local government leaders forecast gains in both efficiency and productivity (54%). However, researchers caution that achieving these outcomes will depend on securing adequate investment in new network solutions.

Mark Cunningham, Head of Public Sector at TalkTalk Business, said: "Investing in smart cities and intelligent spaces is about far more than technology, it's about transforming everyday lives. They create places that streamline public services and enhance citizen wellbeing, delivering benefits that are tangible, inclusive, and long-term. "To make this vision a reality, we need strong digital infrastructure as the backbone of a more connected, resilient, and sustainable future. That means building networks that can adapt to the demands of emerging technologies, while ensuring staff have the skills and support to drive innovation forward. "With these foundations in place, the public sector can unlock the full potential of smart spaces, creating future-ready communities where people and businesses can truly thrive."

The report concludes that unless the public sector accelerates investment in improving both organisational and national connectivity, the promise of smarter, more efficient spaces may not be fully realised.