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Building the Blueprint

Written by Dan Ashby on . Posted in Innovation, News, Small Cells, Thought Leadership.

We’re living through a transformation in mobile infrastructure. But it’s not one that’s making headlines… not yet anyway. The real shift is happening at street level, in the way we think about network architecture, and in the partnerships we build to make it real.

We all know the pressures. As an industry, we’re pushing hard to deliver high-quality, reliable coverage to more communities and businesses, while grappling with tougher economics and limited room for traditional expansion. Tall masts in remote fields got us here, but they won’t get us to where the UK needs to be.

That’s why it’s time to talk seriously about small cells. Not just as a bolt-on to existing strategy, but as a foundational layer for capacity, resilience, and reach, especially in dense urban areas where macro coverage alone can’t keep up with demand.

And let’s be honest: demand is not going anywhere. It’s accelerating. Data usage is climbing fast. Customer expectations are rising even faster. And with operators committing to ever-broader population targets, the pressure is real. This isn’t about signal bars anymore, it’s about delivering usable, high-performance connectivity wherever people live, work, travel and gather.

But the path forward isn’t just about throwing more kit at the problem. It’s about rethinking the infrastructure model itself. That’s where Neutral Host Outdoor Deployment (NHOD) comes in, and where outdoor small cells become a crucial enabler.

At Cornerstone, we’ve been working closely with two essential partners to bring this vision to life:

  • Signify, who have built trusted relationships with local authorities and understand how to unlock public infrastructure, especially lighting columns, for digital use.
  • IONX Networks, who bring deep technical integration experience, a track record from Dense Air, and the RAN agility needed to support all operators.

Together, we’re building a blueprint for outdoor small cell deployment that works. One that doesn’t just tick the boxes technically, but understands the local nuance, the planning constraints, the power and fibre considerations, and the all-important commercial model.

Because let’s face it: NHOD has been talked about for years. What’s different now is that we’re finally aligning the pieces:

  • JOTS compliance means operators now have a standardised, scalable way to integrate small cells into their existing networks.
  • Commercial frameworks are starting to take shape, giving operators confidence they can deploy without losing control or differentiation.
  • Local authorities are more open than ever to new solutions, but they need partners who understand their world and can help them see long-term value.

What we’re learning is this: if we can get those three ingredients working in sync: technical credibility, commercial clarity, and local trust, then we can finally deploy at the pace and scale the UK needs.

But it’s not going to happen by accident. It needs coordination. It needs shared ambition. And it needs us, as an industry, to stop treating outdoor small cells like a fringe tactic and start treating them like strategic infrastructure.

At Cornerstone, we’re ready to play our part. We don’t claim to have all the answers, but we do know this: our role as a neutral host, working across operators, vendors and regional stakeholders, puts us in a unique position to connect the dots. To turn promising trials into scalable networks. To take NHOD from PowerPoint to street pole.

And we’re already seeing it happen. Towns and cities are starting to lean in. The appetite is there. The urgency is growing. And the benefits, from digital inclusion to future-proofed capacity, are impossible to ignore.

The truth is: this is no longer a technology problem. It’s a coordination challenge. And the prize is huge: a UK mobile network that’s fit for the future; not just in theory, but in practice.

So here’s our call to action.

If you’re an operator: come to the table. NHOD gives you reach, resilience and cost-efficiency, while preserving your brand and network control.

If you’re a local authority: work with us. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. The partnerships and frameworks already exist. We’ll help you unlock your own infrastructure for digital use.

If you’re a vendor: let’s collaborate. The market is here. The opportunity is real. But we need joined-up delivery that works from procurement through to performance.

The blueprint is in place. The pressure is mounting. And the UK deserves a mobile infrastructure strategy that’s bold enough to meet the moment.

We’re ready. Let’s build it, together.

www.cornerstone.network/small-cells


by Jamie Hayes, Chief Sales & Commercial Officer, Cornerstone

Rethinking Network Delivery

Written by Dan Ashby on . Posted in Connectivity, Innovation, News, Small Cells, Thought Leadership.

As the UK charts its course toward nationwide 5G and beyond, one truth is increasingly clear: the traditional approach to mobile infrastructure can’t deliver future networks at the pace or scale required. But by learning from global leaders, embracing small cell deployment at scale, and redefining how we collaborate, both as an industry and with local government, real progress is within reach.

Here’s how Cornerstone sees the path forward:

1. Planning reform should enable progress, not delay it

Global markets are showing what pragmatic planning looks like. In Sweden, rooftop installations that don’t materially change a building’s appearance are often exempt from planning permission, a simple exemption with significant impact. Ireland and Scotland are following suit with rooftop solar, recognising that infrastructure serving a wider societal benefit shouldn’t be trapped in bureaucracy.

The same logic must apply to mobile networks. Small cells and neutral host solutions are essential to urban 4G and 5G rollout, and the planning environment must reflect that.

Public sector leadership also plays a critical role. Estonia’s EstWin project is a model of how central coordination, clear targets, and public-private alignment can drive digital infrastructure forward. By contrast, UK infrastructure providers often face fragmented local authority engagement, with unclear roles and inconsistent processes.

To enable meaningful progress, the UK needs a new engagement model, one that brings the right decision-makers to the table early and treats connectivity as a form of critical infrastructure.

2. Small cells aren’t emerging, they’ve arrived

With macro deployments reaching diminishing returns, particularly in dense and constrained areas, small cells are no longer a future concept. They’re the practical solution for delivering high-capacity, low-latency coverage in areas where traditional infrastructure isn’t viable.

Cornerstone’s Small Cell Coverage Solutions are already addressing these challenges head-on, particularly in environments with high footfall or space limitations. The model is neutral host by design, supporting all mobile network operators and leveraging existing assets like street lighting and street furniture in partnership with Signify and IONX Networks.

With over 10% of the macro estate already digitised using drone surveys and digital twins, Cornerstone applies the same smart tools to accelerate and de-risk small cell deployments. This data-led approach enables faster planning, improved sustainability, and reduced on-site disruption.

And this isn’t just about closing gaps. Small cells are foundational to smart cities, connected transport, AR learning, and digital public services. They’re enabling the future, not waiting for it.

3. Shared infrastructure isn’t a compromise, it’s a catalyst

Yes, small cells and fibre are capex-heavy. But they don’t need to be commercially daunting, if approached differently.

Cornerstone’s long-standing neutral host model offers a clear solution. Shared infrastructure reduces cost, duplication, and time-to-market by aggregating demand across mobile network operators. The result is higher utilisation and lower risk; benefits that apply as much to street-level deployments as they do to traditional towers.

Intelligent deployment also matters. With tools like digital twins, remote mapping, and predictive modelling embedded from day one, infrastructure becomes not just more efficient to install, but smarter to manage long-term.

The key is reframing infrastructure not as a sunk cost, but as a scalable value enabler, enabling better coverage, better experience, heightened public safety, and new opportunities for service innovation.

4. Local authorities aren’t blockers, they’re enablers (if we let them be)

One of the biggest inhibitors to infrastructure rollout is misalignment, often due to misunderstanding how local government operates.

In the UK, councils vary widely in function and authority. County councils may not be planning authorities. Planning officers may not be the right point of entry. Infrastructure providers must invest in understanding these structures and build relationships accordingly.

Cornerstone is advocating for a more mature engagement model, one that makes collaboration easier and more productive from the start. By using digital tools like drone surveys and 3D visualisations, we make community consultation more transparent and efficient, helping address concerns around design, aesthetics, and disruption.

Importantly, the tone is shifting. More local authorities now see mobile infrastructure as a public asset, essential to economic development, service delivery, and safety. The opportunity is to meet that interest with support, data, and delivery expertise.

5. Infrastructure sharing isn’t optional, it’s inevitable

Infrastructure sharing is not a new idea. Cornerstone has built its business on it for more than a decade. But what’s new is the breadth of the opportunity.

The same principles that have made macro sharing successful are now being applied to small cells, smart street assets, and even emerging CaaS models. The technology exists. The commercial models exist. What’s needed now is alignment, across operators, government, and partners, to move with purpose.

Shared infrastructure accelerates deployment, cuts cost, and extends connectivity to more people, more quickly. In a market as complex as the UK, that makes it not just viable, but vital.

Final thought: Let’s move from talking to building

The UK has no shortage of ambition around digital connectivity. But if the sector is serious about delivering next-generation networks, it must move beyond pilot projects and siloed initiatives.

Cornerstone’s message is clear: take inspiration from global examples. Embrace small cells at scale. Build better partnerships with local authorities. And treat infrastructure sharing not as a challenge to navigate, but as a strategic advantage to unlock.

The time for debate is ending. The time for delivery is here. Let’s get on with it.

www.cornerstone.network/small-cells

by Vidhu Mayer, Senior Propositions Manager, Cornerstone

Rail Connectivity in the UK

Written by lydia mcgurin on . Posted in Connectivity, Leadership, News, Thought Leadership.

Thought Leadership

In 1964, Japan’s Shinkansen, the iconic bullet train was launched, setting a new global standard for high-speed rail. Japan integrated advanced technology early into its infrastructure and by 2020, the Shinkansen offered Wi-Fi across nearly all of its network. Why has the UK struggled to achieve similar success? Is infrastructure a weak point for the UK? When the Notre Dame Cathedral tragically burned in 2019, France pledged to rebuild it within five years, and delivered to award-winning standards, using cutting-edge digital twin technologies. Meanwhile, closer to home, the Hammersmith Bridge, which also closed in 2019 due to structural cracking, remains shut to this day. Its prolonged closure continues to cause frustration, lost productivity, increased congestion, and delays for Londoners.

The UK had its first passenger railway in 1825 between Stockton and Darlington, over 100 years before the Shinkansen came along. And yet, despite this head start, passengers on most parts of the UK rail network still struggle to make a phone call. A recent study found that businesses lose an estimated £300 million annually in productivity due to dropped calls and poor internet access on UK trains (Deloitte, 2021). However, to provide for the needs of passengers and rail networks as a dependency for the 5G-based FRMCS, infrastructure needs upgrading, creating opportunities for private investment and collaboration in the digitisation of the railways.

As CEO of the UK’s largest mobile infrastructure company, I believe connectivity is no longer a luxury but an essential service, even at 125 miles per hour. With over half of the country’s mobile calls and data transiting through equipment hosted on our physical infrastructure network, and with an appetite to partner, innovate and invest, we’re uniquely positioned to address the long-standing issue of poor connectivity on trains.

Recent remarks by the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology Minister, Chris Bryant, highlight the frustration of dropped calls and weak signals on rail journeys which resonate deeply with people across the country. (Ministerial keynote address Connected Britain 2024).  These experiences aren’t just inconveniences; they represent lost productivity, hindered economic output, and disgruntled commuters.  Research shows that 40% of train passengers experience issues with mobile connectivity while travelling (National Rail Passenger Survey, 2020) leading to a loss of productivity and affecting communication on mobile devices for commuters. As the rail experience becomes increasingly digitised (ticket purchases, arrival and journey times) this connectivity becomes ever more important. Alongside all of this, there’s also a sustainability commitment at play such as the Green Travel Pledge, an industry-wide initiative led by the Rail Delivery Group, which is encouraging businesses to shift from car and plane to train for more environmentally friendly journeys.

These real experiences and expectations are reshaping the demands placed on rail infrastructure. Meeting them is critical not just for passenger satisfaction but for the competitiveness of the UK’s rail network on a global stage. European counterparts are pushing ahead, notably with Germany’s Deutsche Bahn already pioneering rail connectivity with its Gigabit Innovation Track, testing 5G-based FRMCS technologies to offer seamless coverage on high-speed trains.  In 2024, we realised that Cornerstone’s experience in public and private partnerships uniquely equipped us to join the debate and be part of the solution. In Europe, we’re already working with and learning from our shareholders at Vantage Towers, who has partnered with Deutsche Bahn, Telefonica and Ericsson on the Gigabit Innovation Track. They’re testing passenger 5G connectivity on high-speed trains and how to integrate electronic train communication systems with FRMCS.

Such insights are directly applicable to the UK’s rail network. Cornerstone’s infrastructure includes over 850 locations situated close to rail lines, 19 mainline stations have macro rooftop sites managed by Cornerstone (including Liverpool Street, Waterloo and Paddington) as well as 19 indoor distributed antenna systems for in-building coverage schemes. This infrastructure presents a unique opportunity to enhance mobile coverage and transform the passenger experience. With some proactive focus and targeted industry collaboration, we can deliver infrastructure and connectivity solutions that aren’t just innovative but have real impact – no other industrial partner to the railways has the access to infrastructure and access to private capital that we do.

The future of rail connectivity hinges on collaboration, a strength that also makes it challenging. When industries align, great progress is possible, but conflicting priorities often make getting things done a slow process. Partnerships like the one Vantage Towers has built in Germany show what’s possible when we align expertise and resources. In the UK, the opportunity to integrate 5G and FRMCS represents a possible way forward.

We need to adopt a broader perspective on how we are shaping the infrastructure of tomorrow, across all industries, not just in mobile and digital infrastructure where we operate. Cross-industry partnerships are essential to addressing the national infrastructure challenges we face. No single company can solve these complex issues alone. The connectivity challenges on our railways demand coordinated action, and I am confident that our company’s capabilities place us at the forefront of this effort.  We’re conducting field studies, which we will share at Mobile World Congress this March. We expect these studies to reveal significant gaps and will outline our proposed solutions to address them.

Other countries have shown that solving train connectivity issues is not only possible but achievable with the right focus and collaboration.  Quick wins are within reach if the government and industry commit to action. This isn’t rocket science, Germany’s successful trials prove it. The time for talk is over. It’s time to act – delivering for passengers, driving economic growth, and modernising the UK rail industry.  Let’s get moving.

Wait—did I hear the phone ringing? Perhaps it’s Chris Bryant calling to discuss rail connectivity…!

This article is the first in a series where we will explore the critical role of connectivity in national infrastructure. Our goal is to ignite meaningful dialogue, build partnerships, and pave the way for transformative change.

Pat Coxen, CEO, Cornerstone, January 2025

Cornerstone Sponsors Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust

Written by Dan Ashby on . Posted in Connectivity, Infrastructure, News, Thought Leadership.

Thought Leadership

Cornwall is a region defined by its rugged beauty, seasonal shifts, and vibrant communities. Yet, alongside its natural charm, unique infrastructure challenges arise. At Cornerstone, we believe robust digital connectivity should be available to everyone, no matter where they are in the UK, and this commitment has driven our partnership with the Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust (CAAT). Our aim is to ensure that Cornwall’s communities, businesses, and emergency services stay connected, especially in times of critical need. 

Championing Local Connectivity: A Collaborative Approach 

Our partnership with the Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust represents a powerful collaboration aimed at reinforcing connectivity in Cornwall. As part of this partnership, we recently spent two days at CAAT’s headquarters, meeting with key figures including Tim Bunting (Chief Executive of CAAT), Steve Garvey (Air Operations Officer and Paramedic), Andrew George (MP), and Steven Webb (former Mayor of Truro and CAAT supporter). Through these discussions, it became clear how transformative mobile connectivity can be, not only for CAAT’s life-saving operations but also for Cornwall’s social, transport, and community infrastructure. 

This collaboration also reflects our commitment to Cornwall’s unique challenges. We’re listening to the needs of local organisations and stakeholders, who have shared insights into how reliable mobile connectivity enhances CAAT’s emergency response, supports daily operations, and opens doors for broader community engagement. Cornerstone’s work in Cornwall is a demonstration of how digital infrastructure can uplift communities by providing critical links for health, transport, and education across the region. 

Vital Needs for Emergency Services in Cornwall 

The Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust’s mission is to provide emergency response services to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, often reaching patients within a mere twelve minutes from the moment they’re called. With Cornwall’s rural landscape and dispersed communities, CAAT’s ability to rapidly transport individuals to specialist hospitals is vital. Their helicopter is more than just a vehicle; it’s a lifeline that connects people in crisis with life-saving healthcare. 

Our work with CAAT highlights how essential reliable mobile connectivity is to their operations. CAAT’s team can swiftly coordinate logistics, access critical information, and communicate effectively as they respond to emergencies across the region. 

In light of Cornwall’s seasonal population fluctuations, CAAT’s demand peaks during holiday periods, leading to an increase in the need for emergency response services. Recognising this, CAAT is adding an additional helicopter to handle the seasonal influx of visitors. Just as CAAT’s fleet expands to meet demand, so must Cornwall’s mobile infrastructure, which must be adaptable to support residents and tourists alike, offering seamless and reliable connectivity no matter the season. 

Social and Educational Challenges in Cornwall 

Cornwall faces several socio-economic challenges, being the third poorest county in the UK. Many Cornish residents encounter barriers to education, employment, and healthcare, and as such, Cornerstone recognises the role digital infrastructure plays in supporting these communities. Reliable mobile connectivity can help bridge these gaps by connecting people to essential services, reducing isolation, and creating new opportunities for social engagement and economic activity. 

Beyond providing infrastructure, Cornerstone is committed to supporting skill development in Cornwall. Through initiatives such as the CNFE and Apprenticeship Programme, we aim to help develop talent locally, providing career pathways in technology and engineering in a region where access to further education and training is often limited. This commitment to enhancing local opportunity aligns closely with our mission to connect Cornwall’s people with new possibilities for growth and resilience. 

Rail and Transport Connectivity in a Seasonal County 

The transport needs of Cornwall, including its rail system, are also shaped by the ebb and flow of its population. Cornwall is a popular tourist destination, seeing significant population growth during holidays and festivals. During the recent Connected Britain 2024 event, Chris Bryant raised an essential question regarding this very issue: How can we ensure that Cornwall’s rail systems are sufficiently connected to meet the influx of people during holiday seasons? 

This question reflects the broader connectivity needs of Cornwall’s transport systems. It’s clear that both rail and mobile networks must be equipped to serve not only the steady local population but also the surging seasonal visitors. Cornerstone sees an opportunity here to collaborate with the government to ensure Cornwall’s transport systems are digitally equipped, supporting both daily operations and the peaks in demand that seasonal tourism brings. In parallel, we’re dedicated to expanding Cornwall’s mobile infrastructure so that residents and visitors alike can rely on fast, secure connectivity whether travelling by road, rail, or on foot. 

Supporting Cornwall’s Social, Vital, and Transport Infrastructure 

Our recent meetings with local leaders, including CAAT’s leadership, council representatives, and members of Parliament, affirmed that connectivity is not just about technology—it’s about enhancing everyday life. Reliable connectivity supports vital emergency services like CAAT, powers public transportation, and enables social progress. Our work with CAAT exemplifies how digital infrastructure can support both health and resilience in Cornwall, ensuring that help is always in reach and that no one is left without essential connections. 

As we work to expand and strengthen connectivity in Cornwall, Cornerstone remains dedicated to supporting the unique social, educational, and logistical needs of the region. Our partnership with CAAT is a testament to what can be achieved when we prioritise people, community, and innovation in our approach to infrastructure. Together, we’re building a future where Cornwall’s people are always connected to what matters most, no matter where they are or what season it is. 

by Pat Coxen, CEO, Cornerstone

Pat joined Cornerstone as CEO in January 2023. He started his career in the British Army, serving for 15 years in the Royal Signals in Telecommunications and Cyber Security and the Royal Engineers in various roles.

Leading the Future of Connectivity: A Vision For Change

Written by lydia mcgurin on . Posted in Leadership, News, Thought Leadership.

Thought Leadership

Connected Britain 2024 provided a vital platform for discussing the future of the UK’s digital connectivity. From policymakers to industry leaders, the event underscored a shared ambition to ensure that the UK remains competitive in the digital age while tackling the significant challenges that remain on the road to ubiquitous, high-quality connectivity.

Accelerating infrastructure deployment

A recurring theme throughout the event was the need to accelerate infrastructure deployment. Chris Bryant MP, Minister of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, highlighted the importance of efficient regulation and swift decision-making to keep pace with the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy.

To support the pace of digital innovation, planning rules and regulations must evolve. A more adaptable planning framework is essential to facilitate the development of digital infrastructure in line with technological advancements. Accelerating deployment is crucial not only for the expansion of 5G and full-fibre networks but also for unlocking the potential of emerging technologies such as IoT and smart cities.

One notable exhibit at Connected Britain was our installation of a Cornerstone mini tower, installed by our trusted build partners Swann Engineering. The tower was a practical reminder of the essential but often unseen infrastructure that underpins mobile connectivity. It serves as a clear example of the physical components necessary to support the digital services that society increasingly relies on.

A path to ubiquitous connectivity

Beyond infrastructure, achieving a more inclusive digital society was another key focus. The Minister’s remarks about digital poverty were particularly sobering—1.5 million people in the UK remain without reliable access to online services, and the uptake of social tariffs remains alarmingly low.

Addressing this divide is no longer just a matter of economic progress but of social responsibility. Whether in remote rural areas or underserved urban environments, expanding access to high-quality mobile connectivity is essential. Collaboration with local authorities and the use of innovative solutions like small cells and neutral hosting will be vital in reaching the areas that have been left behind.

Collaborative approaches for future-proofing the UK’s digital network

Future-proofing the UK’s digital network will require more than just the rollout of current technologies like 5G and fibre. The infrastructure must be adaptable to support new technologies and industries as they emerge. The integration of IoT, the development of smart cities, and the digital transformation of public services all depend on a robust, flexible network that can meet diverse and evolving needs.

Collaboration will be key to this transformation. Government, regulators, and industry need to work together to create frameworks that enable the development of a truly interconnected digital ecosystem. Multi-sector cooperation will ensure that the infrastructure is not only fit for purpose today but able to evolve as future requirements arise.

Bridging the gap between policy and practice

While Connected Britain was a hub of forward-thinking discussion, the challenge now lies in turning these ideas into action. Achieving the government’s digital ambitions will require greater alignment between policy and practical implementation. Streamlining planning approvals, prioritising sustainability, and fostering deeper collaboration across sectors will all be critical to making progress.

The Minister’s emphasis on evidence-based decision-making is a timely reminder that we need a more data-driven, pragmatic approach to infrastructure planning and deployment. By ensuring that regulations support innovation while addressing environmental and societal impacts, the UK can lead the way in creating a digital future that benefits everyone.

A vision for the future

As we reflect on the conversations at Connected Britain, it is clear that the road ahead will require not only technological advancements but also a collective commitment to action. Building a resilient and inclusive digital infrastructure that supports the UK’s long-term growth will depend on continued innovation, effective collaboration, and an ongoing dialogue between all stakeholders.

by Pat Coxen, CEO, Cornerstone

Speed Up Britain

Written by admin on . Posted in Infrastructure, News, Thought Leadership.

The Electronic Communications Code legislation was updated in December 2017 with the intention to make the roll-out of mobile infrastructure quicker and more cost-effective. Cornerstone, along with other organisations has recently launched a campaign, Speed Up Britain, to further support the Government with the Code.

The objective of the campaign is to help identify how the Code can be improved to better enable operators to install and upgrade new technologies on mobile sites.

To find out more, read the press statement