02 May 2025
Cornerstone has joined forces with Signify to transform street lighting into a hub for next-generation mobile connectivity. This groundbreaking initiative will position Oxford as the first city in the UK to harness its existing street lighting infrastructure to deliver high-capacity mobile coverage for its residents, businesses, and visitors.
The collaboration integrates advanced small cell technology into streetlight systems, allowing urban infrastructure to evolve into a scalable, multi-operator wireless network. By utilizing Signify’s BrightSites solution alongside Dense Air’s cellShare platform, Cornerstone is set to empower Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to enhance mobile services significantly. This innovative approach promises improved connectivity, increased capacity, and better digital services without the necessity for extensive new infrastructure.
Oxford’s selection for this pioneering deployment aligns perfectly with the UK government’s recent pledge to position the city as ‘Europe’s Silicon Valley’ and to bolster transportation links between Oxford and Cambridge. This initiative not only reinforces Oxford’s status as a nexus for digital innovation and smart city applications but also addresses the growing demand for fast and reliable mobile services. The enhanced connectivity is expected to foster local businesses, stimulate economic growth, and improve public services, facilitating everything from remote work to Internet of Things (IoT) initiatives.
The Oxford rollout marks the beginning of a nationwide strategy, as Cornerstone, along with Signify and Dense Air, plans to implement similar small cell deployments in at least two other UK cities by 2025, with further locations anticipated in the future.
“At Cornerstone, we are dedicated to revolutionizing the UK’s digital landscape. Our Oxford deployment exemplifies our commitment to working alongside partners to enhance urban infrastructure, stimulate economic growth, and cultivate connected communities,” said Pat Coxen, CEO of Cornerstone.
“By integrating connectivity with street lighting, we’re transforming urban digital infrastructure. Our collaboration with Cornerstone and Dense Air will result in scalable, sustainable solutions supporting both 4G and 5G services, ensuring that cities like Oxford remain at the forefront of the digital revolution,” said Khalid Aziz, Senior Vice President and Managing Director at Signify’s BrightSites.
“We are excited to support this partnership, enabling effective urban connectivity through our cellShare platform. Utilizing small cells creates a sustainable and efficient model for cities across the UK, allowing MNOs to extend their coverage and capacity seamlessly,” said Jim Estes, CEO of Dense Air.
Local leaders have applauded the initiative, recognizing its importance in enhancing Oxford’s digital framework and fostering economic development.
“This further establishes Oxfordshire as a center for innovation and technological advancement,” said Martin Reeves, Chief Executive of Oxfordshire County Council.
“This deployment underscores the critical nature of world-class digital infrastructure for our future and will facilitate smart city applications in areas like transportation and healthcare,” said Craig Bower, Director of the Digital Infrastructure Programme at Oxfordshire County Council.
