Sunderland City Council has awarded a strategic partnership to BAI Communications for the Smart City PPP project in the UK.

Under the 20 years partnership, the company will design, build and operate next-generation digital infrastructure including a private 5G small cell network. The first phase includes a backbone of 5G connectivity, based on a neutral host model, expected to be established within the city by summer 2022. The new high-speed 5G coverage will contribute to business growth and innovation and bring substantial social and economic benefits to its residents, businesses and visitors, including the creation of over 100 jobs.

The project is the next step on Sunderland City Council’s journey to achieve its global smart city ambition. Through the partnership, Sunderland will be able to scale its advanced smart city plan. Greater high speed 5G mobile connectivity will be accompanied by other networking technologies allowing Sunderland to deliver transformative digital services for communities and sectors such as manufacturing and logistics, education and social care.