The move is a fundamental part of the government’s
exploration of what 5G connectivity could bring to the
transport sector.
The Trans Pennine Initiative (TPI), part of the
government’s Northern Powerhouse plans, aims to test
ways of providing high quality passenger connectivity
to trains using trackside infrastructure, including
addressing issues related to access, processes and
costs. In doing so, it will assist in developing the
Government’s ambition of main line rail routes having
uninterrupted mobile coverage and guaranteed Wi-Fi.
5G is the next generation of mobile connections and the
government is supporting the development of the
technology through its modern Industrial Strategy.
Minister for Digital said:
The importance of fast, reliable and uninterrupted
connectivity on our rail network is only going to
increase. Projects like the Trans Pennine Initiative
will be instrumental in delivering this for
passengers, and are all part of our commitment to
make the UK a world leader in 5G.
DCMS has today launched a call for information to
industry which will provide information necessary to
assist in the trial and to identify any constraints and
concerns that potential trialists envisage.
We anticipate companies selected to take part in the
trial will be given the opportunity to:
- Deploy their trial radio equipment on the TPI pilot
route without the need to invest in trackside
infrastructure
- Benefit from financial support for installation
activities on the TPI pilot route
- Demonstrate the viability of their products in a
live environment with a wide demographic of passengers,
including business commuters, day trippers and long
distance travellers. This will help allowing for
testing of capacity, coverage and security.
- Make use of a new 5G facility at Melton Mowbray
where technologies can be tested.
The initiative is a joint effort between the Local Full
Fibre Networks (LFFN) and 5G Testbeds and Trials (5GTT)
Programmes, with Network Rail (NR) as our delivery
partner.
Responses to the call for information should be sent
to: 5genquiries@culture.gov.uk.
The closing date for comments to be submitted is noon
14th September 2018.
