KPMG highlights Sunderland’s smart city transformation

Sunderland’s smart city journey has received another significant endorsement – this time from KPMG UK, which has featured Sunderland City Council as a case study in its latest Citizen Experience Excellence report.

The report explores how councils and public services can use digital transformation, data and technology to improve experiences for residents. Sunderland is highlighted as a leading example of how innovation can be used to deliver real-world impact for communities.

At the heart of the feature is a message Sunderland has championed throughout its smart city journey: technology should improve lives, strengthen communities and create opportunities for everyone – ensuring no one and nowhere is left behind.

The KPMG case study shines a spotlight on Sunderland’s long-term smart city vision, its joint-venture partnership with Boldyn Networks, and the city’s investment in digital infrastructure, data-led services and inclusive innovation. It also recognises Sunderland’s growing reputation nationally, following recognition as the UK’s smartest city back in 2024.

The piece highlights how Sunderland is using real-time insight and connected infrastructure to improve outcomes across everyday services – from tackling digital exclusion and supporting vulnerable residents, to helping frontline teams make faster, more informed decisions.

Liz St Louis, Director of Smart Cities and Enabling Services at Sunderland City Council, said within the report:

“A smart city is about using digital infrastructure and digital and data technologies to improve the lives of citizens, enhance the experience of visitors and tourists, and help businesses operate.”

The report references examples already making a difference across the city, including:

• multi-agency digital health hubs using data visualisation to identify and respond to crime and anti-social behaviour trends
• smart sensors helping identify damp and mould in homes earlier
• digital inclusion initiatives supporting residents with access, skills and confidence online
• connected technologies improving efficiency and responsiveness across council services

For Sunderland, the recognition from KPMG is another strong endorsement of the city’s approach – reinforcing that data, connectivity and innovation are most powerful when combined with a clear social purpose, not tech for tech’s sake.

The feature also reinforces Sunderland’s growing reputation as a city willing to innovate differently – combining long-term partnerships, ambitious leadership and people-centred design to create a model that is increasingly attracting national and international attention.

Rather than presenting smart cities as futuristic concepts, the KPMG report demonstrates how Sunderland is embedding innovation into everyday life – supporting residents today while helping shape a more connected, resilient and inclusive future.

You can read the full KPMG Citizen Experience Excellence case study here:

Read the KPMG case study.