13 September 2024
A series of new private 5G networks is set to transform food and wine production across West Sussex, enabling local businesses with the tools and skills to thrive in the digital age.
This transformative initiative will co-develop foundational 5G use cases, testing technologies like sensors, drones, and cameras that can revolutionise farming practices and promote sustainable food production.
The announcement marks the next phase of the ‘Growing Sussex 5G Innovation Region,’ an ambitious project aimed at driving sustainable food and drink productivity through 5G technology.
Boldyn Networks will design and build four high-bandwidth private 5G networks across two grower sites and participating colleges, to pilot cutting-edge technologies such as automation and real-time remote control and monitoring. The networks will launch in the first quarter of 2025.
From autonomous tractors to advanced drones, the project aims to trial new innovations across the region’s agriculture sector, to increase the uptake of 5G technology in growing practices across the country, to improve productivity, yields and profitability. By fostering the development of thought leaders, managers, and data analysts, the project will open exciting new career paths in the growing sector.
The project, a consortium of West Sussex County Council, West Sussex Growers, Brighton University, education centres and commercial producers, secured £3.8 million in funding from the Government's Department of Science, Innovation and Technology as part of its 5G Innovation Regions programme.
“Sussex provides a fertile environment for sustainable food and drink production, aligning with the government’s Food Strategy. By placing education at the core, we are equipping the workforce with digital skills to utilise modern technology across fields, farms, and vineyards. This approach not only supports local job creation in our key sectors but also broadens employment opportunities for students and workers, encouraging more to consider careers in horticulture, agriculture, and viticulture,” said Steve Waight, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for Digital Infrastructure.
“From increasing productivity to equipping the next generation of agricultural workers with the essential digital skills they need to thrive in this evolving landscape. We’re committed to helping shape the future of farming with the support of private 5G networks to accelerate a new era for agriculture. By integrating cutting edge technologies and enabling key use cases, we’re excited to transform the agricultural industry and help boost the West Sussex economy,” said Fionnuala Furmston, Country Manager UK, Private Networks Europe at Boldyn Networks. “Furthermore, the project will establish a replicable model for 5G adoption in growing sectors across the UK. By enabling British growers to produce food and drink more efficiently and sustainably, it aligns perfectly with the current UK Food Strategy.”
