Partner Article

WIG switches on 4G network at intu Metrocentre

Wireless Infrastructure Group (WIG) has switched on a state-of-the-art 4G small cell network at intu Metrocentre shopping centre, as part of a £100m national rollout by the firm.

The new WIG small cell network will transform the wireless broadband experience for intu Metrocentre’s 22 million annual customers by enabling continued and consistent access to 4G and other mobile services through dedicated infrastructure.

WIG is a leading provider of wholesale wireless infrastructure, which is shared by networks such as EE, O2, Vodafone and Three to deliver their wireless services.

WIG has deployed its small cell infrastructure in intu Metrocentre at no cost to the shopping centre owner and the infrastructure has been developed to support all of the UK mobile operator networks.

Scott Coates, WIG chief executive, said: “Delivering 4G services to public venues, offices and busy high streets requires new investment in dedicated small cell infrastructure. Our wholesale infrastructure is a very efficient way to improve coverage not just in rural areas but also for busy indoor venues like shopping centres. This is part of our £100m small cell investment programme and further launches will take place in the coming months.”

MP for Blaydon, Dave Anderson, said: “It can be easy for areas outside of city centre locations or busy business districts to miss out on the benefits of the latest 4G technology so it is great to see WIG investing in this type of infrastructure at intu Metrocentre.

Having access to the best possible 4G coverage will allow visitors to get the most out of their shopping experience, giving them reason to return time and time again to this already popular shopping location.“

WIG has a track record of making substantial investments into wireless infrastructure. Wholesale infrastructure owned by providers like WIG have higher rates of utilisation than traditionally owned infrastructure helping to reduce not spots and partial not spots.

WIG was recently awarded the contract to build a city-wide outdoor wholesale network in Aberdeen and has just unveiled a major 4G upgrade to its small cell network at MediaCityUK, Manchester. This has been anchored by Vodafone and is one of the UK’s largest and most advanced wireless communication networks delivering 4G services to BBC, ITV and 200 other businesses.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Minto .