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Wireless infrastructure firm Cellnex UK has today announced that they’ve partnered with the Harrow Council in London to deploy Small Cell technology across the Borough’s street furniture, which will target 4G and 5G mobile (mobile broadband) connectivity “blackspots” around high streets and transport hubs.
Small Cells are typically akin to shoebox sized mobile (radio) base stations that are designed to deliver limited coverage (usually up to around 100 metres) and thus tend to be more focused on busy urban areas and specific sites – it’s not uncommon to find these sitting on top of lampposts, CCTV poles or old payphone cubicles (i.e. more cost-effective than building new street assets).
Cellnex UK has already adopted a similar approach with the Hounslow and Swansea councils, thus their expansion into Harrow suggests that this is delivering some positive results. As with the prior deployments, the Small Cells are designed to be open access, so any mobile operator can make use of them at wholesale once built.
Councillor Norman Stevenson said:
“Reliable 4G and 5G is no longer a luxury but a necessity. We know it can be frustrating trying to use data or connect to mobile signal in busy areas. That’s why we’re putting residents and businesses first by bringing better connectivity to help people carry out their day-to-day activities while on the go.
This partnership helps to deliver Harrow’s Digital Infrastructure Strategy which aims to support the rollout of both advanced mobile networks and full-fibre broadband to drive economic growth and digital inclusion as well as attract private investment.”
Camilla Vauiter, Cellnex UK Commercial Director, said:
“We are increasingly looking for ways to creatively improve the reliability of mobile coverage throughout the UK. By working collaboratively with local authorities, like Harrow, we want to unlock the available public assets around us that can accelerate the deployment of connectivity solutions where they are needed most. Connectivity is more than just infrastructure; it’s ensuring everyone can participate fully in today’s digital society. This partnership with Harrow will help build that foundation.”
Sadly, the announcement doesn’t clarify how many of these Small Cells will be deployed across Harrow as part of this agreement or precisely where they’ll be installed. In addition, it’s unclear which mobile operators have already signed-up to adopt the new infrastructure, although we assume they wouldn’t be doing it without first having recorded some interest.