UK mobile network operators will get easier access to lampposts, bus shelters and other street furniture to speed up the rollout of next-generation, ultrafast 5G technology under a new government trial.
The £4m Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Accelerator project launched today will explore ways to make it simpler and quicker for mobile companies to use publicly-owned buildings and kerbside infrastructure to host 5G radio equipment.
UK digital infrastructure minister Matt Warman said: “The lampposts lining our streets have huge potential to accelerate the rollout of 5G and reduce the need to build new masts, but right now getting access to this infrastructure can be tricky.
“That’s why we are investing millions to help local councils and mobile companies work together more effectively to bring people the incredible benefits of faster connectivity as we level up the UK.”
5G currently offers download speeds up to 100 times that of 4G, making mobile phones faster and able to process larger amounts of data. It is also expected to broaden the role that mobile technology plays in wider society by enabling thousands more ‘smart’ devices that connect to the internet and each other.
According to the government, this could pave the way for new virtual and augmented reality services and help drive the take-up of new innovations such as autonomous cars. Furthermore, it could transform the way public services such as transport are delivered by allowing greater real-time monitoring and responsiveness in order to reduce pollution or congestion.
The deadline for applications to the competition is 18 November 2021.
