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Cornerstone Leads Oxford’s Digital Evolution with City-Wide Small Cell

Written by Dan Ashby on . Posted in Case Study, Collaboration, News.

Oxford is the first of three major UK cities set for enhanced mobile connectivity in 2025, reinforcing the Government’s vision for the city as a global tech hub. 

23 April 2025 – Cornerstone, the UK’s leading mobile infrastructure services company, has partnered with Signify, the global leader in lighting, and Dense Air, a neutral host platform provider, to deliver next-generation connectivity through existing street lighting infrastructure. Oxford will be the first city in the UK to benefit from this ground-breaking deployment, ensuring seamless, high-capacity mobile coverage for businesses, residents, and visitors. 

This innovative approach integrates small cell technology into street lighting, transforming urban infrastructure into a scalable, multi-operator wireless network. By leveraging Signify’s BrightSites solution and Dense Air’s cellShare® platform, Cornerstone is enabling Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to provide improved mobile coverage, greater capacity, and enhanced digital services – all while reducing the need for additional infrastructure. 

Supporting Oxford’s future as a digital leader 

Oxford’s selection as the first deployment city aligns with the Government’s recent commitment to position the city as “Europe’s Silicon Valley” and to strengthen transport links between Oxford and Cambridge. This small cell rollout will further cement Oxford’s reputation as a hub for digital innovation, smart city applications, and world-class mobile connectivity. 

With the demand for fast, reliable mobile services continuing to grow, this solution will support local businesses, drive economic growth, and improve public services through enhanced digital connectivity. From supporting remote work to enabling IoT-powered smart city applications, this investment ensures that Oxford remains at the forefront of the UK’s digital transformation. 

A scalable model for future smart cities 

The Oxford deployment marks the beginning of a nationwide initiative. Cornerstone, alongside Signify and Dense Air, has committed to rolling out similar city-wide small cell deployments in two further UK cities in 2025, with additional locations to follow. 

Pat Coxen, CEO at Cornerstone, said: 
“At Cornerstone, we are committed to revolutionising the UK’s digital landscape by delivering cutting-edge mobile infrastructure solutions that empower our customers — Mobile Network Operators — to provide seamless, high-speed      connectivity. Our Oxford deployment is a prime example of how we are working with partners and local authorities to transform urban infrastructure, support economic growth, and create more connected communities. This initiative not only enhances mobile coverage but also reinforces Oxford’s position as a leader in digital innovation.” 

Khalid Aziz, SVP and Managing Director of BrightSites by Signify, added: 
“By integrating connectivity with street lighting, we are reshaping the way cities approach digital infrastructure. In partnership with Cornerstone and Dense Air, Signify’s BrightSites technology will provide scalable, sustainable connectivity solutions that support both 4G and 5G services, ensuring that Oxford and other UK cities remain ahead in the digital age.” 

Jim Estes, CEO at Dense Air, commented: 
“We are delighted to be supporting this partnership, enabling Cornerstone and Signify to optimise urban connectivity with our cellShare® platform. By leveraging small cells, we’re creating a future-proof model for cities across the UK, providing a sustainable and efficient way for MNOs to expand coverage and capacity.” 

Supporting Local Innovation and Growth 

Local leaders have welcomed the deployment, recognising its potential to enhance Oxford’s digital landscape and support economic and social development. 

Martin Reeves, Chief Executive of Oxfordshire County Council, said: 
“We’re delighted that our partners at Cornerstone and Signify have chosen Oxford as the first location to benefit from their 5G small cell rollout. This further establishes Oxfordshire as a centre for innovation and technological advancement. By working closely with partners, we have positioned ourselves as a forward-thinking region that readily adopts new technology to benefit our residents and businesses.” 

Craig Bower, Director of the Digital Infrastructure Programme at Oxfordshire County Council, added: 
“With the recent Government announcement on Oxford’s global tech ambitions, this deployment is a timely reminder of how critical world-class digital infrastructure is to our city’s future. These 5G small cells will enhance mobile connectivity and enable smart city applications, from intelligent transport to healthcare innovation. We’re thrilled that Oxfordshire has been selected as the first city in this commercial rollout.” 

As a leader in mobile infrastructure services, Cornerstone remains committed to working with MNOs, local authorities, and technology partners to accelerate the UK’s digital transformation. This deployment is just the beginning of a long-term strategy to bring best-in-class connectivity to urban centres across the country. 

Learn more about Cornerstone’s Small Cell Coverage Solution here.

Bridging Innovation and Infrastructure: Pat Coxen, CEO of Cornerstone, and Martin Reeves, Chief Executive of Oxfordshire County Council, examine a small cell unit during a recent strategy meeting in Oxford. The session marked a key milestone in bringing advanced connectivity solutions to the city.
Powering Collaboration for a Connected Future: Cornerstone’s Senior Leadership Team welcomes Signify and Dense Air executives to Theale to align on the nationwide small cell rollout—starting with Oxford. The partnership is a model for cross-industry collaboration driving the UK’s digital transformation.
Next-Gen Connectivity Meets Academic Excellence: A vision of the future: AI-rendered imagery showcases the discreet integration of Cornerstone’s small cell technology within the historic Oxford University campus—delivering high-speed mobile connectivity without compromising heritage or aesthetics.
Smart City Infrastructure at Street Level: An AI-generated rendering of Cornerstone’s small cell deployment in Oxford’s city centre. The design blends seamlessly into urban infrastructure, enabling 5G coverage, IoT integration, and smarter services for residents and visitors alike.

END 

For further information, please contact media@cornerstone.network. 

About Cornerstone 

Cornerstone is the UK’s leading mobile infrastructure services company, managing a portfolio of over 15,700 sites that provide vital connectivity nationwide. As a trusted partner to Mobile Network Operators, local authorities, and the wider telecommunications industry, Cornerstone delivers innovative, sustainable infrastructure solutions that enable seamless communication, support economic growth, and drive digital inclusion. From traditional towers to cutting-edge small cell technology, Cornerstone is shaping the future of the UK’s digital landscape. 

About Signify 

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals, consumers, and the Internet of Things. Our Philips products, Interact systems, and data-enabled services transform lives in homes, buildings, and public spaces. News from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on X, LinkedIn, and Instagram. 

About Dense Air 

Dense Air provides a Platform-as-a-Service solution called cellShare®, enabling infrastructure owners and operators to deliver neutral host mobile broadband services at scale. By leveraging shared small cell clusters, Dense Air helps cities and infrastructure providers optimise network capacity, supporting enhanced mobile services through a sustainable and scalable deployment model. 

About Oxfordshire County Council 

Oxfordshire County Council provides around 80 per cent of local government services in Oxfordshire including social care for adults and children, highway maintenance, education, trading standards, fire and rescue, registration (births, deaths and marriages) and libraries.

For more information please visit: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/

About the Digital Infrastructure Programme 

The Digital Infrastructure Programme is a self-funded team in Oxfordshire County Council and collaborates with diverse partners to improve digital infrastructure across the county. By working with commercial operators, central government and running intervention projects, the programme helps to facilitate digital infrastructure delivery and improve access to broadband, mobile and public access to Wi-Fi services across the county. 

Cornerstone and MuxCo Expand Digital Radio Coverage

Written by lydia mcgurin on . Posted in Case Study, Collaboration, News.

February 2025

Radio remains an essential source of news, entertainment, and emergency updates for communities across Wales. To ensure continued access to these vital services, Cornerstone, the UK’s leading mobile infrastructure provider, has partnered with MuxCo Wales to expand DAB digital radio coverage in West Wales. This collaboration enhances signal reach and reliability, ensuring that more businesses, residents, and listeners, particularly those in rural and remote areas, can continue to enjoy their preferred digital radio stations.

By leveraging Cornerstone’s existing infrastructure in Aberystwyth, MuxCo Wales has been able to deploy transmission equipment quickly and effectively, extending coverage with minimal disruption. This initiative strengthens the availability of both commercial and BBC digital radio services, reinforcing the role of radio as a trusted source of information and connection across Wales.

Delivering real benefits to communities:

  • Enhanced coverage: Improved signal reach ensures more listeners benefit from high-quality, reliable digital radio services.
  • Support for rural areas: Expanding digital radio availability in remote communities ensures continued access to critical news, entertainment, and emergency broadcasts.

Martin Mumford, Managing Director at MuxCo Wales, commented: “We’re pleased to extend our coverage into Aberystwyth.  We’ve worked closely with our partners at Ofcom, Cornerstone and radio stations to deliver this project to provide a solution which balances maximising audience coverage with the costs of providing a service in more rural areas.”

Miranda van Gestel, Chief Customer Officer at Cornerstone, added: “Digital infrastructure isn’t just about business, it’s about social inclusion, community safety, and people getting access to the news. Our partnership with MuxCo Wales reflects our commitment to keeping communities connected, whether through radio, mobile networks, or digital transformation projects.”

For more information, contact: media@cornerstone.network

About Cornerstone

Cornerstone is the UK’s leading mobile infrastructure services company, operating over 15,700 sites nationwide. Committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that support businesses, communities, and the wider economy, Cornerstone plays a crucial role in shaping the future of connectivity across the UK.

UK’s Best Workplaces™ 2025 

Written by Dan Ashby on . Posted in Collaboration, Legislation, News.

Cornerstone has officially been named as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces™ 2025 by Great Place To Work®, the global authority on workplace culture.  

Officially announced last night at the prestigious Best Workplaces Awards, we ranked 71st in the ‘Large’ category for companies with 201 to 1000 employees. Previous winners include Vodafone, Hilton and DHL, and we’re proud to be promoted alongside companies setting industry standards. 

At Cornerstone, we prioritise our culture and the everyday experience; to be awarded this is a testament to the Cornerstone culture, and something we are extremely proud of. Our company regularly reviews our initiatives to ensure we hold a strong employee value proposition. Initiatives include flexible working, 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays, 2 weeks working abroad, and a thorough maternal and paternal leave policy. 

Some highlights from our survey were that 98% of employees said that Cornerstone is a physically safe place to work, 92% of our employees said that they feel they can take time off when they think it’s necessary, and 90% of our employees said that when they joined the company, they were made to feel welcome. 

Ginette Kilroy, Chief People Director, commented “We are incredibly honoured to be recognised as one of the Best Workplaces by Great Places to Work. This award is evidence of the dedication and hard work that has gone into making our wonderful culture. At Cornerstone, we are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to bring their best authentic selves to work every day. This recognition inspires us to continue fostering a culture where everyone matters.” 

To read the full list, click here: UK’s Best Workplaces™ List. 

About Cornerstone 

Cornerstone is the UK’s leading mobile infrastructure services company with approximately 15,700 sites across the UK. With a focus on enabling seamless mobile and digital connectivity, Cornerstone brings together land, property, infrastructure, and technology for positive change. 

About Great Place To Work® 

Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture. Their mission is to help every place become a great place to work for all. They give leaders and organisations the recognition and tools to create a consistently and overwhelmingly positive employee experience, fostering cultures that are proven to drive business, improve lives, and better society. Their recognition is the most coveted and respected in the world for elevating employer brands to attract the right people. Their proprietary methodology and platform enable organisations to truly capture, analyse, and understand the experience of all employees. Their groundbreaking research empowers organisations to build cultures that retain talent and unlock the potential of every employee. For more information, visit www.greatplacetowork.co.uk  

Vodafone and Cornerstone

Written by Dan Ashby on . Posted in Collaboration, Legislation, News.

Vodafone and Cornerstone welcome the recent rulings from both the Upper Tribunal and the County Court, which set important precedents for the mobile industry by providing greater clarity on the renewal of telecoms infrastructure agreements under the Electronic Communications Code.

The cases concerned two fully operational mast sites managed by Cornerstone under established agreements. When these agreements expired, Vodafone and Cornerstone sought to renew them under fair, modern terms to ensure continuity of service. However, AP Wireless (APW) and its successor, Icon, opposed the renewal, seeking to remove fully operational equipment not because of any genuine redevelopment need, but so as to drive mobile operators onto their own infrastructure.

The Tribunal and County Court ruled that landlords cannot use redevelopment claims as a pretext to undermine infrastructure providers’ rights unless they present a clear, actionable, and credible redevelopment plan. These decisions reinforce fairness in site management and support stable mobile coverage for businesses and consumers across the UK.

Andrew Yorston, General Counsel & Company Secretary, Vodafone UK, said: “We are pleased with the judgments, which provide much-needed legal clarity and set important precedents for the mobile industry. Vodafone has always maintained that our position was the right one, and these rulings reaffirm the principles of fairness and sustainability in mobile infrastructure deployment. By ensuring that site access remains reasonable and does not impose excessive costs, these decisions support our ability to continue investing in and expanding our network, delivering critical connectivity for customers and businesses across the UK.”

Belinda Fawcett, Director of Property and Estates and General Counsel at Cornerstone, said: “These rulings are a significant win for fair and transparent site management across the telecoms industry. They confirm that site providers cannot misuse redevelopment arguments to force unnecessary site removals, disrupting fully operational infrastructure without a valid reason. At Cornerstone, we are proud to play a vital role in enabling mobile networks that connect people and businesses. These decisions provide much-needed legal clarity, ensuring infrastructure providers like Cornerstone can continue working with operators and landlords to deliver reliable, future-proofed mobile coverage across the UK. The rulings assure us that our rights are secure, enabling the further investment that is urgently required across the network.”

As the Nation’s Network, Vodafone remains focused on accelerating its 5G rollout and ensuring the best possible coverage for communities across the UK. Vodafone will continue to work collaboratively with site providers and infrastructure partners to support a sustainable, future-ready digital infrastructure.

ENDS

About Cornerstone:

Cornerstone is the UK’s leading mobile and digital infrastructure services company, managing a portfolio of over 15,700 sites, providing vital connectivity nationwide. As a trusted partner to Mobile Network Operators, local authorities, and the wider telecommunications industry, Cornerstone delivers innovative, sustainable infrastructure solutions that enable the growing demand for digital services and supports the Government’s ambition for economic growth and digital inclusion. From traditional towers to cutting-edge small cell technology, Cornerstone continues to lead and deploy on its commitment of a connected world always within reach. For more information, visit www.cornerstone.network

About Vodafone UK

Vodafone UK is a technology communications company that connects people, businesses and devices to help our customers benefit from digital innovation. Our services span mobile, fixed-line connections, home and office broadband, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

We have a strong track record as a tech pioneer, making the UK’s first mobile phone call, sending the first text message, and making the UK’s first live holographic call using 5G in 2018. We were the first to start carrying live 5G traffic from a site in Salford, Greater Manchester and now have 5G in locations across Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain as well as the UK. Meanwhile, our 4G network coverage currently reaches over 99% of the UK population.

Today, Vodafone serves more than 18 million mobile and fixed-line customers in the UK. Vodafone is the largest provider of full fibre in the UK – our superfast broadband services are now available to nearly 12 million homes across the UK.

Sustainability is also at the heart of what we do: as of 1 July 2021, 100% of the grid electricity we use in the UK is certified to be from renewable sources.

For more information about Vodafone UK, please visit: www.vodafone.co.uk.

What does it take to successfully manage 8,000 landlords?

Written by admin on . Posted in Collaboration, News.

by Julian Shariff, Head of Property & Estates

As the leading UK provider of mobile digital infrastructure, we fully respect and drive mutual alignment between us and property owners who enable our asset portfolio for our customers. Having overall accountability for our properties and estates is a huge undertaking with responsibility for managing our relationship with 8,000 Landlords and ensuring we fulfil our obligations to them, alongside our customers. This requires a structured and thoughtful approach to our partnership management.

From our strategic partnership with Cluttons, the implementation of the Locken App for enhanced site security, on-going training programs with our suppliers, and coming this summer our new Landlord app, we are wholly committed to being the best tenant we can be. As part of our pledge, we are focused on four key areas and initiatives that set Cornerstone apart in our approach to partnership management in the industry.

  1. Paying rent on time, every time
    At the heart of our approach to leasing land for our infrastructure is a fundamental principle to treat each landlord with the respect and consideration they deserve. We recognise for them that their site deserves bespoke attention, and that they receive their rental payments in line with our lease obligations. We are delivering on this commitment, with over 93,000 payments processed every year.
  2. Staying accountable through our strategic partnership with Cluttons
    To streamline communication and address landlord queries and concerns efficiently, we work seamlessly with our property management partner, Cluttons. They provide a dedicated point of contact for our landlords for a wide range of services, ensuring that their needs are promptly addressed and resolved, answering a staggering 35,000 emails every year.
  3. We’re going digital, rolling out our site access solution
    In our commitment to accountability and transparency, we’ve launched the Locken app which is part of our roll-out program. This innovative solution guarantees that only authorised people gain access to our sites, enhancing security on our landlord premises. With controlled access and strict permissions, sensitive sites remain better safeguarded, and landlords are reassured that only qualified professionals are accessing their property. This summer, we will be trialing our new Landlord App for customer support and payments.
  4. Improved collaboration across our ecosystem
    We hold ourselves to the highest standards of service excellence and are working with our operational site partners to review standards and compliance training. Our site engineers cover a vast estate and we recognise the need to drive consistency into our processes to ensure that everyone who represents Cornerstone on-site reflects our values.

Looking ahead, we remain dedicated to innovation and continuous improvement in how we better meet the needs of our landlords and will continue to drive our listen, act, learn program and conduct ‘Voice of Landlord’ surveys. It’s a big job but I’m proud of the estate and our landlords, and we’ll keep working to earn the title of best tenant we can be for mobile digital infrastructure.

Cornerstone Joins techUK to Champion Digital Infrastructure Advancements

Written by admin on . Posted in Collaboration, News.

Press Release:

London, UK — June 6, 2024 — Cornerstone, the UK’s leading digital infrastructure services company, is pleased to announce its membership with techUK, a leading industry association representing approximately 1000 technology firms.

techUK serves as a vital bridge between the technology sector and government policymakers, advocating for policies that foster innovation and growth within the industry. As a member, Cornerstone will leverage its expertise to contribute to techUK’s initiatives to shape the future of technology in the UK.

“We are pleased to join techUK and collaborate with industry peers and policymakers to drive positive change in the technology landscape,” said Jamie Hayes, Chief Sales & Commercial Officer at Cornerstone. “This partnership aligns with our commitment to advancing digital infrastructure and supporting the UK’s technological evolution.”

In recognition of Cornerstone’s leadership in the field, Jamie Hayes has been appointed Chair of the Telecoms Infrastructure Working Group, a key workstream within techUK consisting of 21 specialised programmes. The Telecoms Infrastructure Working Group serves as the focal point for telecoms infrastructure deployment within techUK, addressing critical issues related to fixed and mobile rollout. The Group focuses on the uptake of the deployment of fibre and radio networks through engagement and collaboration with local authorities, working with techUK’s Local Government Programme, and creating a forum for all stakeholders to convene and share knowledge and best practices.

“The appointment of Jamie Hayes underscores Cornerstone’s dedication to driving innovation and excellence in telecoms infrastructure deployment,” said Sophie Greaves, Head of Telecoms and Spectrum Policy at techUK. “We are confident that Jamie’s tech leadership will enhance collaboration and foster dialogue among stakeholders to accelerate the adoption of next-generation networks.”

Cornerstone’s CSCO Jamie Hayes will also take a leadership position in the Communications Infrastructure and Services Council, which sets the strategic direction for techUK’s Telecoms Programme, and explores these themes and policy areas:

  • The potential of future telecoms, open and disaggregated networks and diversification of the supply chain
  • Telecoms security and resilience, including our monthly TSA Industry Sessions
  • The rollout of fixed and mobile infrastructure, working in close collaboration with local authorities
  • Adoption of advanced communications services by key economic sectors

As a member of techUK, Cornerstone will actively participate in relevant workstreams to provide policy guidance and advocate for best practices in telecoms infrastructure deployment. Furthermore, all Cornerstone employees will have the opportunity to engage in these initiatives, fostering their professional growth and development.

“We look forward to contributing our insights and expertise to techUK’s initiatives and collaborating with industry stakeholders to drive meaningful impact,” added Jamie Hayes. “Together, we will work towards building a digitally connected future for the UK.”

For media inquiries or more information about Cornerstone’s membership with techUK, please contact Lydia McGurin at lydia.mcgurin@cornerstone.network.

Editor’s Note:

About Cornerstone

Cornerstone is the UK’s leading digital infrastructure services company, with approximately 15,500 sites across the UK.

With a focus on excellence and innovation, Cornerstone provides innovative solutions for telecoms infrastructure deployment and is committed to driving the UK’s technological evolution.

About techUK

techUK is the technology trade association that brings together people, companies, and organisations to realise the positive outcomes of what digital technology can achieve.

With over 1,000 members (the majority of which are SMEs) across the UK, techUK creates a network for innovation and collaboration across business, government, and stakeholders to provide a better future for people, society, the economy, and the planet.

Cornerstone partners with Signify

Written by admin on . Posted in Collaboration, News.

Press Release

Cornerstone partners with Signify to revolutionise street lighting with 5G and IoT connectivity

The UK’s leading digital infrastructure services company, Cornerstone, is partnering with global leading light company, Signify, to harness the power of 5G and IoT to transform urban landscapes.

Cornerstone’s visionary approach recognises the growing demand for digital connectivity in UK cities, and this partnership aims to provide an innovative solution to address this need by leveraging existing infrastructure. By integrating Signify’s luminaire technology into lamp heads on streetlights, Cornerstone will build an Outdoor Neutral Host platform to enable seamless connectivity in urban environments discreetly and efficiently, allowing communities seamless access to public networks.

“This partnership is yet another example of our evolution towards neutral hosting and smart city solutions,” said Nick Spedding, New Business Manager at Cornerstone. “We’re committed to bringing connectivity to urban and dense urban areas across the UK where currently connectivity is not in place or limited, enabling access to public networks is at everyone’s fingertips.”

Cornerstone’s role as a neutral host in this partnership underscores its commitment to enabling seamless connectivity deployment across diverse urban landscapes. The first project under this partnership will be deployed across three cities, laying the foundation for future expansion and innovation in the field of smart city infrastructure.

“This collaboration with Cornerstone marks an exciting opportunity to converge the strengths of two industry leaders,” said Khalid Aziz, SVP and Managing Director of the BrightSites Business Unit at Signify. “By harnessing the power of 5G and IoT through our street lighting solution, we are illuminating streets and paving the way for a more connected and sustainable future.”

With the project set to launch within the next 10 weeks, both companies are poised to lead the market in driving innovation and progress across the UK.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Lydia McGurin at lydia.mcgurin@cornerstone.network.

Editor’s Note:

Cornerstone is the UK’s leading digital infrastructure services company, with approximately 15,500 sites across the UK.

Signify is the world leader in lighting for professionals, consumers and the Internet of Things.

Sir John Whittingdale MP Announces Improved Connectivity in Essex: Cornerstone enable rural digital infrastructure success

Written by admin on . Posted in Collaboration, News.

Cornerstone, the leading tower company at the forefront of digital infrastructure development, announced an important meeting between its senior leaders, Belinda Fawcett (Director of Property and Estates) and Jamie Hayes (Chief Sales and Commercial Officer), and MP Sir John Whittingdale (Minister of State for Department of Science, Innovation, and Technology in 2023) at a tower site in the right honourable member’s constituency of Maldon.

The visit aimed to bring closer collaboration and dialogue on critical issues surrounding infrastructure deployment and governmental support. John Whittingdale’s insights into the challenges faced by the local authorities, particularly in terms of planning resources, highlighted the need for central government support.

Belinda Fawcett, General Counsel and Property Director at Cornerstone, commented, “This visit is about highlighting the significance of collaboration between industry and government in leading the way in bringing digital infrastructure capability to all areas of the UK in an economically viable and sustainable way.”

Addressing these challenges, Belinda Fawcett emphasised, “The necessity of appointing and funding of digital champions in local government and further support for submitted planning applications is urgently needed to accelerate the deployment of crucial digital infrastructure, to benefit the local communities.”

Jamie Hayes, Chief Sales and Commercial Officer, outlined Cornerstone’s ‘Six Point Plan’, aimed at aligning efforts with government to expedite digital infrastructure deployment:

  • Enhance Support for Local Planning Authorities (LPAs)
  • Closer Engagement in Digital Connectivity Section of “Section 106” Agreements
  • Empower Digital Champions
  • Streamline Planning Regime
  • Legislative Changes for Multi-Skilled Visit (MSV)
  • Implementation of PSTI Act Provisions

The visit was joined by WHP, Cornerstone’s build partner. Rob Potter, CEO of WHP reflected, “We work closely with Cornerstone to support them in enabling the right solutions for their customers. Our partnership is focused on innovation and collaboration, so we continuously look to create sustainable solutions that drive economic growth and societal progress”.

MP celebrates Cornerstone’s planning achievement

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At Cornerstone, we respect the rich history and heritage of the areas where we install our connectivity infrastructure. Working with communities where we build is integral to us, as consultation encourages engagement in our proposed tower developments.

In Upper Llyntudor, Powys, we collaborated with the Local Planning Authority, CADW (the Welsh government statutory consultee on heritage assets) and Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust – a firm of local archaeologists, to find a location for our tower. This would enable the mobile network operators to provide digital services to the local area whilst preserving the integrity of an ancient monument, Fron Felyn Barrow, a bronze age round barrow.

Fay Jones, MP for Brecon and Radnorshire, said: “The importance of enhancing mobile phone infrastructure in our area cannot be overstated. The development of more mobile phone masts is crucial for improving mobile reception, which is not just a convenience but a necessity in today’s connected world. I am particularly excited about the prospects this approval opens up. It signifies progress and a move towards better connectivity for everyone in the region.”

Cornerstone Partner Conference Video Highlights

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What a great day everyone had at the Williams F1 Experience Centre for Cornerstone’s Partner Conference. We have put together a highlights video which captures the delegate experience and reactions to the day.

See our interim CEO Belinda Fawcett reflect on what the day meant for resetting expectations and looking forward to an exciting future. Hear too from some of the senior delegates on the messages they took away and will be sharing with their teams.

It made such a difference to get people together in one space and to feel the energy of human interaction, which has been missing since COVID and virtual working.

And what an amazing venue to share together, which really added to the occasion.

We look forward to catching up with our Partners again!

Stronger Connections Conference

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Our Legal & Compliance and Property Estates teams got together with our partners at our Stronger Connections Conference this week. Held in London, our audience learnt about the latest developments within the industry and Cornerstone. It was an opportunity to network and discuss best practices and innovative ideas with our partners, to discover how we can continuously make improvements and build better relationships with our site provider community.

As well as a series of presentations hosted by Cornerstone, we had guest speakers from Osborne Clarke, DAC Beachcroft and Cluttons. We got an insight into the latest legal technology, the Economic Crime Act and how it relates to us and research findings from a recent report on the future of connectivity.

“The event was a great success and it was fantastic to have so many people together in the same room. Stronger connections were definitely made and success was certainly celebrated too! Looking forward to the next one already.” Phil Warren, Cornerstone

“It was a huge deal for my team and I to be involved and we came away feeling renewed and positive about our future relationship. The conference was really well put together, professional but personable and it is abundantly clear what a positive direction Cornerstone is now moving in.” DAC Beachcroft

“The content was spot on and the team really appreciated Cornerstone sharing the broader insight into the business’s objectives for this financial year, to give them context for the role they play in helping to deliver against those objectives.” Osborne Clarke

Thank you to all our presenters and attendees for coming along and building stronger connections!

Telecoms Industry Communications Framework

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In March 2021, The Department of Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) commenced a series of workshops. The aim was to bring together the site provider and telecoms community to facilitate discussions to understand better the current industry challenges and goals to help maintain and improve connectivity across the UK.

The workshops determined that a new Telecoms Industry Communications Framework was needed to help improve and promote best practices between all parties when communicating on the renewal or new installations of mobile and fixed infrastructure on sites. The communications framework has been developed with representatives from across the industry to identify how telecom companies and site providers can improve engagement and build trusting relationships. The aim is to work to these guidelines to expect consistency and a positive experience when working together.

Why is this framework important? Mobile technologies and services are evolving and are now considered an essential resource. The Operators and infrastructure providers aspire to fulfil this public demand. But this is only possible by working together with site providers in finding new sites or maintaining existing sites to host mobile infrastructure. Using this Communications Framework, we set the right expectations and practice the right behaviours to make the agreement process as smooth as possible. It is in everyone’s interest to use this when engaging in site agreements to ultimately play a responsible part in enabling the public to gain better access to digital services.

“We know collaboration and communication are key to building relationships with our landlords. We are committed to using this Telecoms Communications Framework with our partners when delivering sites to improve mobile connectivity across the UK.”

Belinda Fawcett, Director of Property & Estates and General Counsel, Cornerstone.

If you would like to request a copy of the framework, please get in touch with us on news@cornerstone.network

Speed Up Britain gains additional industry support

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London, UK, 12 2020 – Three of the UK’s wireless infrastructure providers – Britannia Towers, Ulstercom, and Atlas Tower Group – together with Digital Mobile Spectrum Limited (DMSL), a joint venture of the UK mobile network operators (MNOs), have joined Speed Up Britain as campaign supporters. Launched in July, Speed Up Britain is a campaign calling for the Government to reform the Electronic Communications Code (“the Code”), legislation that was intended to assist the rapid deployment of mobile infrastructure.

Britannia Towers and Ulstercom own and operate transmission sites for the wireless and broadcast industries in mainland United Kingdom and Northern Ireland. Through their networks of towers, they facilitate improvements in mobile coverage across the UK and the deployment of 5G infrastructure.

Atlas Tower Group is an independent wireless infrastructure provider that builds and operates sites throughout the UK. Atlas provide innovative solutions that enable efficient deployment of 4G and 5G technology for mobile operators across the country.

DMSL, a joint venture between EE, Telefónica (O2), Three and Vodafone, is responsible for the delivery of the Shared Rural Network (SRN). The SRN will extend good 4G coverage to 95 per cent of the country and is funded by both the MNOs and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport.

The expansion of Speed Up Britain’s network of industry supporters marks an important step for the campaign in its efforts to secure reform to the Electronic Communications Code. Since launching in July, the campaign has held two industry roundtables with the Minister for Digital Infrastructure Matt Warman MP, launched a report on the Code with the Centre for Policy Studies, and met with national and local leaders from across the UK.

The announcement also comes on the back of confirmation from the Minister for Digital Infrastructure that the Government plans to publish a consultation on the operation of the Code before Christmas.

Rt Hon Patricia Hewitt, Chair of Speed Up Britain, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Britannia Towers, Ulstercom, Atlas Tower Group and DMSL to Speed Up Britain. Together they bring a wealth of industry knowledge and experience to the campaign that will prove invaluable as we continue to press for urgent, necessary changes to the Code.”

Emmet Stokes, Director at Britannia Towers and Ulstercom, said:

“We are very proud to be joining our industry colleagues in Speed Up Britain. We feel it is imperative that the industry comes together to support the fundamental issue of Code reform in the greater interest of everyone who uses wireless technology at home or at work. 

We have come to the firm conclusion that in its present form, the Code is proving to be more of a barrier than a support in helping us maintain and grow our tower network to support mobile network operators, broadband providers and multiple other site users.”

Russell Jeffries, CEO at Atlas Tower Group, said:

“It is a privilege for Atlas to be joining Speed Up Britain alongside other leading industry players. This initiative is important in ensuring that the Code seamlessly supports efficient deployment of next generation communications technology across the UK.  

The Code should be an enabler of 5G roll-out rather than a barrier. If this can be achieved, the legislation can be a powerful tool that works in partnership with business to roll-out connectivity as quickly as possible, benefiting consumers throughout the country.”

Ben Roome, CEO at Digital Mobile Spectrum Limited (DMSL), said:

“Effective implementation of the Code is critical to delivering the benefits of mobile connectivity to some of the most rural places around the UK. It is only by all parties working together the Shared Rural Network can deliver it’s objective of transforming mobile coverage countrywide, enabling rural business to prosper and rural communities to thrive.”

ENDS

For media enquiries please contact: 

James Melville-Ross: +44 (0) 790 968 4467

Adam Davidson: +44 (0) 779 384 5080

contact@speedupbritain.com

About Speed Up Britain

Speed Up Britain is a cross-industry, non-partisan organisation, campaigning for better mobile connectivity in every part of across the UK.

Speed Up Britain was founded by organisations committed to delivering the infrastructure necessary to meet demand for future mobile connectivity but who are frustrated by blockages in the system of securing access agreements under the Electronic Communications Code 2017.

The campaign is chaired by Rt Hon Patricia Hewitt, the former Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (2001-2005) and Member of Parliament for Leicester West between 1997 and 2010.

Find out more at www.speedupbritain.com

About Britannia Towers and Ulstercom

Britannia Towers and Ulstercom own and operate transmission sites for the wireless and broadcast industries throughout the United Kingdom. They have built up an extensive network of transmission sites over many years in business. As part of this network, they own, manage and develop high capacity telecommunications towers and licence antenna space on these to the full spectrum of wireless service providers.

About Atlas Tower Group

Atlas Tower Group is an independent telecoms infrastructure company that builds, owns and operates wireless sites throughout the UK. Established in 2018, Atlas is managed by an experienced team with a proven track record of delivering major innovations to the industry. The company offers a transparent and uncomplicated customer-focused proposition that works in partnership with the country’s leading mobile operators and operator JVs.

About Digital Mobile Spectrum Limited

Established in 2012, Digital Mobile Spectrum Limited (DMSL) is a joint venture of the UK mobile network operators EE, Telefónica (O2), Three and Vodafone. Our vision is a disruption free digital life for people across the UK. DMSL helps make this a reality by connecting people to communications and media networks and removing barriers to access.

We specialise in transparently delivering complex programmes with multiple public and private stakeholders. Utilising our expertise in radio modelling, customer experience and TV coverage planning, we support our stakeholders in achieving their shared objectives through our TV interference mitigation, spectrum clearing and rural connectivity programmes.