Freshwave signs deal for open access with Sutton Council

Supported by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) this is the latest in a range of open access agreements that Freshwave has signed with local authorities across the UK

Leading network service provider Freshwave has announced that it has signed an open access agreement with Sutton Council.

Open access makes it easier for mobile network operators (MNOs) to share digital infrastructure and provides residents and local businesses with enhanced digital connectivity.

Lead member for resources Councillor Sunita Gordon 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.”

Sutton Council has also partnered with Cellnex UK and Ontix for the open access agreement.

Deployment of infrastructure 

Freshwave will be deploying small cells, used in high demand areas such as high streets and transport hubs, across a variety of cities in 2022 and 2023. 

Outdoor small cells immediately enhance 4G mobile connectivity and the digital infrastructure used will also be 5G ready, allowing new technology to be adopted more quickly, bringing further benefits to communities.

Freshwave CEO Simon Frumkin said: “It’s great to see Sutton Council embracing the future with the open access model. We’re proud to have worked closely with DCMS, the Greater London Authority, and other local authorities to help develop it. And we were also the first to sign an open access agreement with a council in 2020.

“Open access ensures a level playing field for all and we welcome the competition that this brings. Competition accelerates the speed of deployment, meaning communities and organisations will see the benefits that come with improved connectivity more quickly.”