Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has signed Cellnex UK to build a 5G private network for the Basing View central business district.
It will consist of a 5G core and a radio access network for indoor and outdoor connectivity and support a 5G Living Lab for showcasing smart city and internet of things technology.
The project is being supported by the Enterprise M3 local enterprise partnership and the University of Surrey 5G Innovation Centre, and is part of the council’s effort to create a local 5G ecosystem.
Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Councilllor Ken Rhatigan said: “5G technology is going to transform the way we all live our lives and deliver significant benefits for our borough’s businesses and encourage more businesses to come and grow here.
“I am delighted that we have been able to continue our strong track record of partnership with the private sector to attract significant investment to ensure our borough remains a great place to live and work and cement our reputation as a top tech town. We look forward to working with Cellnex and Enterprise M3 to bring our 5G vision to reality.”
Kathy Slack, chief executive of Enterprise M3, said: “I’m thrilled to see the 5G Living Lab come to fruition with funding from Enterprise M3 LEP, bringing a step-change in digital infrastructure to business in Basingstoke.
“We’ve all had experience of using innovative new digital systems during the pandemic and this new ultrafast network will enable more businesses in Basing View to build, test, demonstrate and ultimately commercialise new, innovative products, further enhancing Basingstoke’s thriving high tech economy.”
Image from iStock, Jackie Niam
