September 26th 2023
Smart infrastructure pilot in Kingston-upon-Thames
Royal Borough deploys new smart columns in 20 CCTV sites to improve local services and designed so that Internet of Things (IoT) sensors can be added.
The project is a partnership with Boldyn Networks, which specialises in shared network infrastructure and cutting-edge connectivity solutions. Some 20 CCTV sites will receive new smart columns, each designed with small cells that mobile connectivity and improve CCTV camera quality. These cameras are to be used to enhance public safety by deterring criminal and anti-social behaviour. In addition, the smart columns have the potential to add Internet of Things (IoT) sensors that can help to better manage borough services such as monitoring road use and air quality.
Kingston-upon-Thames, photo by Robert Cook
The pilot phase of the project will see Boldyn Networks install a fibre ring reaching 10.4km across the borough to provide high-speed connectivity to the new smart columns.
Funding of £250,000 was granted to this project through Smart Infrastructure Pilots programme run by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). The project aims to support the government’s wider UK wireless infrastructure strategy to benefit communities across the UK.
Boldyn Networks says the pilot project also complements its partnership with Transport for London (TfL) to deliver improved connectivity across the capital by installing high-speed mobile infrastructure through London Underground and above-ground fire networks.
John Whittingdale, Minister for Data and Digital Infrastructure, says: ‘The way we stay in touch, access information and do business is underpinned by digital connectivity – and a world-class wireless infrastructure will be the foundation for the jobs, skills, and services of the future. We want to ensure that towns and cities across the UK are right at the forefront of this connectivity revolution, ready to seize the opportunities it will bring for local communities, which is exactly what these pilots are about.
‘They will help demonstrate how advanced wireless technology can enable areas to innovate and deliver better public services, from rolling out electric vehicle chargers to boosting business growth and helping keep our streets safe.’
Billy D’Arcy, CEO of UK & Ireland at Boldyn Networks, adds: ‘We are delighted that our smart column design has been announced as one of the winners of DSIT’s Smart Infrastructure Pilots programme, alongside our partners at Kingston Council.
‘The funding offers a great opportunity to trial smart infrastructure and showcase the benefits that high-speed connectivity offers to local communities. We’re looking forward to seeing the next-generation columns in action, and supporting the boroughs move towards becoming a smart community.’
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