The UK government has introduced a £40 million fund dedicated to assisting local authorities in implementing 5G-based Internet of Things (IoT) solutions.
The primary goal is to stimulate economic growth and enhance services in various sectors, including manufacturing, transport, agriculture, healthcare, and smart cities. The allocated funding will be directed to local and regional councils that can demonstrate how 5G and IoT connectivity can positively impact their communities and foster sustainability. The government’s vision revolves around establishing a “secure digital infrastructure” that generates skilled job opportunities and drives economic development.
To achieve this vision, the government is encouraging applications for city-wide private and neutral host 5G networks, drawing inspiration from the successful initiative in Sunderland involving BAI and Mavenir. The government is closely observing the local Nissan plant in relation to these endeavors. Furthermore, the government has proposed several digital initiatives, such as utilizing sensors to analyze and enhance air quality through efficient traffic management and leveraging 5G-enabled drones to scan fields and crops in the agricultural sector. It also envisions using 5G to improve public service delivery and develop innovative healthcare solutions.
Anticipating significant gains, the government projects that 5G’s productivity benefits in the UK could amount to £159 billion by 2035. Local and regional councils interested in accessing the funding can apply through a government-provided application form. This initiative is part of the government’s comprehensive strategy to bolster connectivity and promote digital infrastructure development across the nation.