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Mobile operator O2 (Virgin Media) and network technology provider Ontix have this morning reported that they’ve successfully deployed their first 4G and 5G Small Cells in North Wales, which have apparently gone live across Flintshire to boost data capacity (mobile broadband), including around Deeside Industrial Park.
Small cells are mini shoebox sized mobile (radio) base stations, which 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. they can be more cost-effective than building new street assets or trying to secure wayleaves on buildings etc.).
“With the extra capacity provided by these small cells, O2 customers can expect more reliable mobile connectivity for everyday calls and online access. Local businesses will benefit from steadier, more resilient connectivity, helping them stay connected with customers and operate effectively during busy periods,” said the announcement.
Steven Verigotta, Director of Mobile Delivery at O2, said:
“Our Mobile Transformation plan is all about ensuring our customers receive a reliable network experience in the moments that matter most. These new small cells will provide extra capacity to the growing Deeside Industrial Park, providing a boost to the businesses based there and to the local economy.”
Richard Jones, Deputy Leader of Flintshire County Council, said:
“The Council welcomes this investment by O2 and Ontix and is pleased to have worked with them and with Ambition North Wales to make public assets available to improve mobile connectivity, a first for North Wales.”
This deployment has been enabled by support from Flintshire County Council, which provided access to its street lighting columns for hosting the new Small Cell equipment. The achievement follows work led by Ambition North Wales, via its 4G+ digital project, which helped councils across the region introduce ‘Open Access Agreements’ – making their infrastructure available to telecommunications companies, like O2.
The upgrades form part of O2’s Mobile Transformation Plan, which is investing around £700m this year into their national mobile network.