Innovative work to enhance digital county connectivity gathers pace

Innovative work to enhance mobile network coverage across Denbighshire has reached its first milestone.

Denbighshire County Council’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) team has worked on a project to make good use of local authority assets to boost mobile network reach around the county.

This Open Access Agreement work allows the Council to make selected assets, mostly street lighting columns, available for the installation of small-cell mobile technology to enhance coverage.

Small cells help with increasing capacity without major infrastructure needed. Once installed they have the capacity to improve digital connectivity for residents and businesses, offering better internet access.

Following signing of an agreement, a mobile network operator will determine if locating their small cells on council assets would support boosting their network.

The first agreement of this process has now been signed by Ontix who have previously installed a total of four small cell sites across neighbouring Flintshire to boost connectivity.

Full control will be retained by the Council over which of its assets may be used for small cell deployment to make sure installation meets all technical, safety and operational standards.

Any development of the small cell technology is cost neutral to the Council, mobile network operators will pay an agreed annual fee for the location of the small cells on assets.

Each Open Access Agreement will operate for a 15 year initial term, providing stability for operators considering investment while offering long term clarity for the Council.

Councillor Huw Hilditch-Roberts, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Education & Children, Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage said: “Signing our first Open Access Agreement with Ontix is an important milestone in this innovative work to improve digital connectivity for residents and businesses across Denbighshire. It provides a strong foundation for mobile operators to consider using suitable Council assets to enhance their networks, while we retain full control to ensure every installation meets the required technical, safety and operational standards.

“As further agreements are progressed, the potential for small-cell deployment could help existing businesses connect more effectively, encourage investment and improve access for communities, including residents in rural areas who have historically experienced more limited connectivity. This will support our ambition to progress a minimum digital living standard across the county.”