Decision details

To seek approval to match fund the cost of the deployment of a 5G network, in Camberley town centre, to create the UK’s first 5G enabled Shopping Centre.

The Executive considered a report seeking approval for the progression of a project to develop a 5G telecommunications network in Camberley town centre.

It was noted that the proposed plans did not commit the Council to proceeding with the roll out of a 5G network and break clauses had been incorporated into the project to enable the Council to suspend work at any point if it wished.

It was agreed that the presentation given to Group Leaders would be circulated to all members along with a briefing note setting out information relating to health and safety matters, the collection of data and how any data collected might be used.

RESOLVED that

(i)        a council-owned, UK first, 5G network in Camberley town centre be agreed in order to aim to attract businesses and technologist from all over the world to help provides a USP for the town and to open opportunity for revenue streams; and

(ii)      the procurement of a commercial partner to generate revenue from the network once live be undertaken.