Freshwave Expands Open Access 4G Mobile Cells in Croydon

Network builder Freshwave, which specialises in deploying 4G and 5G mobile cells that can often be harnessed by other operators, has announced that over 40 new cell sites will be added to their existing coverage in the Croydon area of South London. The same approach will also pave the way for 5G adoption in the future.

A number of small cells were deployed in the same area last year, which was supported via an open access agreement with Croydon Council (i.e. giving Freshwave permission to install small cells onto any of 20,000+ shareable council-owned assets). The addition of 40 new sites will add to that coverage around locations such as the Norwood Junction station and the surrounding area, Thornton Heath, and retail areas such as Purley High Street.

The non-exclusive approach could make it both quicker and easier to enhance mobile network coverage, benefitting local residents, businesses and improving digital inclusion.

Councillor Manju Shahul-Hameed said:

“We’re pleased that this programme has proved such a success and will now be extended to benefit even more residents, businesses and visitors around Croydon.

Mobile connectivity is key for the local economy, which is why it features in the council’s digital strategy and why we’ll continue to work in innovative ways to deliver it to the area.”

Simon Frumkin, CEO of Freshwave, said:

“It’s great that this pioneering open access approach has been such a success in Croydon. Smart cities need the right connectivity and the open access model can really speed up the process for turning planned improvements into a reality that make a noticeable difference to local residents and businesses. We’re looking forward to our ongoing collaboration with Croydon Council.”

Under the rollout some 30 initial new sites will be installed across the borough, including on high streets, markets and smaller transport hubs, by September 2021, with the remaining sites to follow at a later date. Council officers are also in discussion with other telecoms companies interested in further developing the borough’s open access 4G connectivity.