O2 UK and Ontix Expand 5G Mobile Small Cells to Boost Data Capacity in Bath

Mobile operator O2 (Virgin Media) and network technology provider Ontix have this morning reported that they’ve successfully deployed their first 4G and 5G capable Small Cells in the Somerset (England) city of Bath, which will boost local data capacity (mobile broadband) for their network.

Small cells are mini shoebox sized mobile (radio) base stations, which are 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 or events – it’s not uncommon to find these sitting on top of lamp posts, 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 investment in Bath has been delivered through the signing of an Open Access Agreement with Bath & North East Somerset Council (BNESC), which has enabled O2 and Ontix to deploy their Small Cells on existing lamp posts around Bath. The first cells are now live and boosting the network, while further deployments are planned to continue into early 2026.

Richard Williams, Director of Acquisition at Ontix, said:

“Having forged strong and collaborative relationships with the Digital Office at Bath & North East Somerset Council and the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), we were able to deploy at pace, enabling us to rapidly improve mobile capacity in Bath. The city draws visitors year round from across the country and internationally. By enhancing mobile connectivity in the city’s bustling areas, Ontix and O2 are ensuring that residents and visitors alike can stay connected, whilst supporting the city’s ongoing wireless infrastructure needs.”

Steven Verigotta, Director of Mobile Delivery at VMO2, said:

“We’re investing another £700m into our mobile network this year as part of our Mobile Transformation Plan, ensuring our customers receive an exceptional experience wherever they are, even during the busiest periods. Small cells play a vital role in this investment, delivering targeted network improvements where demand is highest. Bath attracts millions of visitors each year, and our customers can now enjoy enhanced connectivity when they’re exploring the city’s historic sites.”

We’re expecting more deployments like this to occur in other parts of the UK during 2026, with many mobile operators now seeing Small Cells as an effective solution to quickly improve network capacity in busy urban areas.