Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has awarded Cellnex UK a 10-year contract to design and build a 5G private network.

The combined 5G core network and radio access network will be situated in Basingstoke’s central business district, Basing View.

Backed by the Enterprise M3 Local Enterprise Partnership and the University of Surrey 5G Innovation Centre, the council aims to create a comprehensive 5G ecosystem to serve local businesses.

The private network will provide indoor and outdoor connectivity in Basing View, and will also support a 5G Living Lab to showcase tech expertise and innovation.

“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,” said David Crawford, Managing Director, Cellnex UK.

“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.”

Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Cllr Ken Rhatigan added, “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.”