Sutton secures open access 5G deals

Businesses in the South London Borough of Sutton are expected to see an improvement in the area’s 4G and 5G mobile coverage as a result of the two agreements which make it easier for mobile network operators (MNOs) to share digital infrastructure installed on council-owned street furniture.

The open access approach has been championed by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) as the government claims it helps to reduce the barriers to improving digital connectivity. The new network built around small cells will allow open access so leading MNOs like EE, VMO2, Three UK and Vodafone can buy access to deliver 4G and 5G mobile services.

Councillor Sunita Gordon, lead member for resources at Sutton Council, said: “I’m pleased to see us making good progress to improve the digital connectivity within Sutton. This will be a huge boost to residents, particularly those living, working or visiting the so called ‘not-spots’ and will also be a very welcome improvement to our infrastructure for local businesses.”