The UK is about to embrace the potential of smart tech in towns and cities thanks to a £1.3 million government pilot program
Smart technology in towns and cities is set to take center stage with smart street lamps capable of charging electric vehicles (EVs) and enhancing wireless connectivity.
Boosting connectivity through smart tech in towns and cities
In response to the growing demand for wireless services, innovative solutions are emerging, using existing infrastructure such as lamp posts, traffic lights, CCTV columns, benches, bins, and bus stops.
This pilot program will see six regions in the UK receive funding to trial multifunctional street columns designed to support advanced wireless networks like 5G and free public WiFi, ultimately bolstering connectivity for residents and visitors in urban centers.
An investment between the government and authorities
The successful execution of these pilot programs will result in a combined investment exceeding £4 million, with the UK government contributing £1.3 million and local authorities pledging an additional £2.7 million.
This partnership aims to enhance community services and quality of life through smart tech in towns and cities.
Beyond improving wireless connectivity, these smart tech in towns and cities columns have the potential to serve various purposes.
They can charge EVs, monitor air quality, display public information, and enhance energy efficiency through street lighting. These capabilities offer local councils and combined authorities opportunities for innovation and improved public services.
The six authorities selected for government funding through the Smart Infrastructure Pilots Programme (SIPP) include Cambridgeshire County Council (£220,000), Tees Valley Combined Authority (£202,500), Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames (£245,700), Westminster City Council (£165,000), Oxfordshire County Council (£250,000), and North Ayrshire Council (£242,765).
The technological transformation of towns and cities
These regions will pioneer different applications, showcasing how cutting-edge smart tech in towns and cities can seamlessly integrate into UK infrastructure, benefiting public services and businesses alike and unleashing the full potential of 5G and advanced connectivity.
Minister for Data and Digital Infrastructure Sir John Whittingdale emphasises the importance of digital connectivity, positioning it as the foundation for future jobs, skills, and services.
He envisions these pilots as instrumental in driving innovation and enhancing public services, from expanding EV charging networks to supporting economic growth and urban safety through smart tech in towns and cities.
UK government’s commitment to advancing wireless connectivity
Julian David, CEO of techUK, welcomes the government’s commitment to advancing wireless connectivity in local infrastructure. He believes these pilots will play a crucial role in encouraging EV adoption and fostering innovation across the UK, ultimately realising the promise of smart tech in towns and cities.
The Smart Infrastructure Pilots Programme aligns with the government’s Wireless Infrastructure Strategy, which aims to integrate wireless connectivity into all facets of infrastructure, stimulate private investment, promote innovation, and create new economic opportunities.
These pilot programs are scheduled to commence in October 2023 and run until March 31, 2025. The future of smart tech in towns and cities is on the horizon.
