Laying the digital groundwork for growth by connecting communities across London is a key responsibility of local authorities, and the right foundations can attract investment and drive inclusive development.
But how can local authorities in the city do this at a time of economic challenge? Through a different approach to technology adoption and deployment. Communities have experienced a digital boost before, with the rollout of broadband fuelling new capabilities. While the rollout of full fibre broadband continues, the expansion of mobile connectivity – and 5G in particular – can also deliver multiple benefits for communities.
Laying the digital groundwork to make London a ‘smart city’
The phrase ‘smart city’ sparks imaginative thoughts of flying autonomous cars, but the reality is far more grounded. Examples showcasing how mobile connectivity can be used as the foundation for innovation, which delivers real community good, can be found everywhere. For smart city capabilities to become a reality in London, having a digital layer that prioritises connectivity is critical.
There is no one way to deliver connectivity. Instead, what’s required is a convergence of fixed and mobile deployments to create ubiquitous coverage and supercharge communities. That equates to a mixture of fibre, macro, and small cell deployments which combine to deliver the superfast futureproof connectivity that can provide the foundation for innovation and growth that will support generations to come.
Ubiquitous connectivity that delivers for all requires a different approach
To support the increasing demand for connectivity, local authorities should turn to partners who can help them to deploy infrastructure faster and use existing assets more effectively. Simply adding more of the same to grow output has its limitations.
Small cells have the ability to bring high-speed mobile connectivity to all. They’re able to support macro cell networks, can deliver greater bandwidth and be deployed at speed, so they can begin to generate benefits for local communities and return on investment (ROI) quickly.
Another exciting development via small cells is C‑RAN (Cloud Radio Access Network) architecture that gives providers full flexibility and control. With advantages including centralising the processing so it can support multiple radio units across the region this will enable more powerful networks at a greater scale. Meanwhile, the evolution of Neutral Host small cells will offer widespread coverage available across mobile networks, improving connectivity for residents and visitors while also lowering the cost and carbon footprint of deployment.
Ubiquitous connectivity means everyone benefits, and it brings 5G closer to where it’s needed, unlocking innovation. Across the city, small cell technology has the power to keep locals, workers and visitors connected with superfast mobile coverage and we’re already seeing them in action.
In Covent Garden, which welcomes over 40 million visitors each year, BT Group’s network arm, EE has deployed small cells to improve connectivity to the spectrum to mobile users within the area. Due to the concentration of people, the density of buildings and the requirement to retain aesthetics, any additional infrastructure had to be hidden – so EE developed a small cell that could be fitted to iconic red telephone boxes. With five kiosks now live in the area, coverage and capacity at street level has been boosted through harnessing existing infrastructure.
Similarly, at the London Eye, another prime tourist attraction, a small cell has been established to help people and businesses connect to a faster 4G network. While across Southwark, there are 17 small cell sites being deployed as Network Clusters on lampposts to keep everyone connected. Small cells have also been installed in a number of BT’s Street Hub 2.0 units to improve network coverage and capacity for residents, businesses and visitors in areas such as Ealing, Hillingdon, Kensington and Chelsea, Barking, Bexley, Tottenham, and Wandsworth.
If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together
Technology that doesn’t benefit all can’t deliver fully on smart city initiatives and ultimately widens digital, social, and economic gaps.
Providers like BT Wholesale work with the wider industry to develop solutions and services that deliver advantages for everyone, while its wide-ranging partnerships mean it has a deep understanding of how local authorities can deliver for communities.
Ultimately, communities need to be connected both physically and digitally. When connectivity deployments cater for all from ideation, it ensures networks are fully accessible – providing the digital foundation which attracts innovation and growth.