A new 5G network will be built in Basingstoke’s central business district to allow businesses to access 5G connectivity.
Cellnex UK has been awarded the contract to design and build the private network in Basing View, which is home to over 100 companies.
The contract was awarded by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and is part of a project funded by EM3 to create a comprehensive 5G ecosystem focused on commercialisation where businesses can access 5G connectivity to develop, trial, and bring new products, services, and applications to market. The project will also support a 5G Living Lab, where industry partners will be able to showcase technology expertise.
Kathy Slack, chief executive of Enterprise M3 Local Enterprise Partnership said she is “thrilled” for Basingstoke.
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 ultra-fast 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.
The leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Cllr Ken Rhatigan said that 5G technology adds “significant benefits” to the borough.
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.
Private Networks offer dedicated coverage with capacity scaled to meet specific needs and locations. They also provide secure voice and data coverage where and when needed to ensure continuity of business-critical operations and are designed to meet demanding business requirements.
The build consists of a 5G core network and a Radio Access Network allowing Cellnex to provide indoor and outdoor connectivity. More than 100 companies – predominantly in professional and financial services – operate from Basing View including firms active in professional and financial services, digital tech, cybersecurity and life sciences sectors.
I am delighted that Cellnex UK has been given the opportunity to support Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council's vision of a fully connected business community in Basing View.
Cellnex UK, through its Edzcom business, has deployed over 35 private networks across Europe, including ports, airports, mines, manufacturing plants, refineries and is the ideal partner to deliver Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council plans for economic growth and digital innovation in the area.
From 1 April 2024, the responsibility for LEP functions across the Enterprise M3 LEP region has transferred to Hampshire County Council and Surrey County Council.
The Enterprise M3 Board met for the last time in March 2024 and Enterprise M3 LEP is no longer operating as an organisation.
For any enquiries relating to economic development across the counties of Hampshire and Surrey, please visit the Hampshire County Council website and Business Surrey respectively.
Please note that Enterprise M3 LEP staff have transferred to Hampshire County Council to continue to deliver services and activities in Hampshire, including the Growth Hub, the Careers Hub, work on key business sectors, and trade and investment.
They can be contacted at economic.development@hants.gov.uk.
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