Mobile network operator O2 (Virgin Media) has continued with their effort to boost 4G mobile (mobile broadband) capacity across the UK, which today sees them working with Ontix to expand their roll-out of small cells into new areas of Birmingham – primarily around Soho Road and Handsworth.
Small cells are akin to mini shoebox sized mobile (radio) base stations, which have been 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.).
The latest project follows similar small call deployments, including in the city centre, which were delivered by the two companies in recent years. In this case, five new small cells have been deployed around parts of Soho Road and Handsworth in order to help “boost mobile capacity in the local area and reduce network traffic at busy times“.
Steven Verigotta, Director of Radio & Mobile Backhaul Delivery at VMO2, said:
“Small cells are an effective way of increasing local network bandwidth and play an important role in allowing us to keep up with rising customer demand. We are proud to have delivered these new sites in Soho Road and Handsworth, which will unlock opportunities for local residents and businesses.
With upgrade programmes underway right across our network, we’re working hard to ensure our customers consistently receive an exceptional network experience wherever they are and even at the busiest times.”
Richard Williams, Director of Acquisition at Ontix, said:
“By deploying small cell connectivity, we aim to facilitate a new era of digital empowerment in these two communities. Through enhanced access to reliable and high-speed internet connectivity, residents will be better equipped to overcome barriers, achieve their goals, and fully participate in the digital economy. We are delighted to have worked with Virgin Media O2 to achieve this first-of-its-kind deployment, boosting digital opportunities where they’re needed most.”
All of this flows from an Open Access Agreement (OAA) with Birmingham City Council, which was signed in 2022 and allows network operators (inc. partners) to use council-owned assets, such as lampposts, to deploy new cellular infrastructure to improve digital connectivity across the city.