Mobile Infrastructure Operators Setup New UK Infrastructure Forum

The four key organisations that help to build shared mobile network infrastructure in the UK, including Cellnex UK, Cornerstone (O2 and Vodafone network sharing), Mobile-Broadband Network Limited (EE and Three UK network sharing) and the Wireless Infrastructure Group (WiG) have today launched the Mobile Infrastructure Forum (MIF).

According to the blurb, MIF’s goal is to support the delivery of mobile infrastructure to improve wireless connectivity for society and businesses throughout the United Kingdom. In the past we might have expected mobile network operators (e.g. EE, Three UK, Vodafone and O2) to handle this side themselves, but in recent years many of those operators have divested their mobile sites or handed management to different organisations.

The new forum will work with government and other stakeholders to inform policy and regulatory activity, improve the efficiency and effectiveness of network rollouts (e.g. 4G, 5G and 6G), generate positive public and local decision-maker sentiment and action, foster closer relationships between landowners and infrastructure providers, and work closely with the Mobile UK trade body and its Mobile Network Operator (MNO) members on relevant infrastructure matters.

Belinda Fawcett, Chair of the Mobile Infrastructure Forum, said:

“The launch of the Mobile Infrastructure Forum is a significant milestone in our efforts to support the delivery of world-class mobile infrastructure throughout the UK. The four organisations are committed to working with our stakeholders to ensure that the UK has the mobile infrastructure it needs to thrive in the digital age.”

At present there’s not an awful lot more to add to this development, which seems like a logical change given the move away from mobile operators that both own and control their own mobile / cell sites and towers etc.