Freshwave notched another UK infrastructure contract, with VMO2 and a local council tapping it to deploy a baker’s dozen of small cells in the town of Guildford.

The connectivity infrastructure-as-a-service company stated nine of the 13 4G and 5G small cells are already active, located in busy areas of the town to boost coverage. These include the high street, historic castle and the railway station.

Freshwave emphasised the dimensions of the small cells are an important element, enabling them to be deployed swiftly using existing street furniture without ruining the town’s aesthetic.

Mobile network operator account director Neil Barnes (pictured) explained its deal with VMO2 and Surrey County Council involves providing open access infrastructure, an arrangement which “means faster rollout, less street clutter and stronger connectivity”.

“It’s a smart, efficient way to support local needs”.

The work in Guildford builds on deals which have seen Freshwave deploy 800 outdoor small cells for various operators in the UK.

VMO2 director of mobile access engineering Professor Robert Joyce said the work is part of a £700 million transformation project.

“We’re bringing faster, more reliable connectivity to busy public spaces to meet record network demand”.

Surrey County Council cabinet member Matt Furniss explained the small cell project advances a digital strategy intended to deliver “stronger local economies” and “more resilient communities”.