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Author: lydia mcgurin

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

Enabling a digitally connected society: How Cornerstone is connecting the four corners of the UK

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

Thought Leadership

As I reflect on our journey leading up to Connected Britain 2024, it’s incredible to think that seamless, high-speed internet—once a luxury—is now becoming a fundamental right that fuels innovation and growth across the UK. I’m genuinely excited about Cornerstone’s role in enabling a digitally connected society across all Four Corners of the UK through our national platform. Our goal is to ensure that your connected world is always within reach. 

Having recently toured the Four Corners of the UK, I saw firsthand how Cornerstone’s work is not just addressing today’s connectivity needs but is truly shaping a brighter, more interconnected future for businesses and communities nationwide. Here’s a snippet of my personal observations of our work alongside other leaders and colleagues in the industry who also have a part to play in shaping the UK’s digital economy. 

England: Strengthening Local Connections
My 1305-mile tour began in the small seaside town of Littlehampton. Our partnership with Isthmian League semi-professionals Littlehampton Town Football Club is a poignant example of how connectivity can uplift local communities. Following a severe storm that damaged a Cornerstone mast at the football club, our response ensured that vital community events could continue without disruption. What started as an emergency repair transformed into a meaningful collaboration. We supported the club not only by restoring functionality but also by enabling digital payment solutions that streamline matchday transactions. This initiative has reinforced the club’s role as a community hub, enhancing local engagement and supporting the club’s growth. Littlehampton FC’s ability to maintain its community activities and embrace modern technology reflects our commitment to strengthening the local economy and fostering community development. We are a proud sponsor. 

Wales: Bridging Digital Gaps in Rural Areas
My next stop took me deep into the most remote parts of Wales. Here, our efforts have focused on bridging the digital divide in some of the country’s most isolated regions. In Carmarthenshire, we addressed a critical need for our customers Vodafone, VMO2 and Three, supporting them to bring the necessary and reliable connectivity in a rural area that had long struggled with getting online access for the everyday things we take for granted. By deploying advanced satellite backhaul and power generation technology, we’ve transformed access for residents and businesses across a 20km radius, unlocking new opportunities for economic activity and social inclusion. The impact has been profound—local businesses can now reach new markets, and residents enjoy improved access to services and social connections in an area prone to isolation and with high unemployment and mortality rates. Similarly, in Builth Wells we overcame steep terrain and regulatory challenges with innovative solutions. We collaborated with local stakeholders such as council representatives, farmers and residents, who helped us navigate the terrain, demonstrating our commitment to blending modern technology with respect for the region’s unique characteristics and needs. We know that nature and technology can and must co-exist. 

Scotland: Driving Digital Innovation in Glasgow
A short flight later, we found ourselves in the bustling, vibrant city of Glasgow. Our initiatives here are enhancing the city’s digital infrastructure with a focus on both technological advancement and environmental impact. Our collaboration with Vodafone, Arqiva, Cambridge University, and others has led to the deployment of smart water meters across the city, revolutionising water management with real-time data. This project not only enhances resource efficiency but also supports Glasgow’s sustainability goals. Additionally, our Air Quality Sensor Network, measures pollution particulates and their movement, providing valuable data to tackle urban air quality challenges. By working closely with Glasgow City Council, we are not just enhancing connectivity; we are helping Glasgow emerge as a leader in digital excellence and sustainability. Our efforts contribute to a healthier environment and demonstrate our commitment to integrating technology with environmental stewardship. 

Northern Ireland: Enhancing Connectivity in Torr
Our final stop was to the breathtaking coastal town of Torr, just outside Ballycastle in Northern Ireland. Here, we demonstrated firsthand how improved connectivity can invigorate local economies and tourism. Located along the stunning Causeway Coast Road, Torr faced significant challenges with limited mobile and broadband access, impacting tourism, local businesses and public services. By installing new 4G infrastructure, we’ve enabled our customers to address these issues, providing visitors, residents and businesses with reliable connectivity to support economic growth and enhance the tourism experience. Our integration of this technology with the region’s rich heritage required careful planning and collaboration with the Historic Environment Division to preserve historical sites, including a Cold War Navy listening station and ancient burial grounds. Our work ensures that Torr can benefit from modern connectivity while maintaining its unique historical context, an area of outstanding natural beauty. This project highlights our dedication to respecting and enhancing local heritage while advancing digital progress. 

A Vision for the Future
As we look to the future, Cornerstone remains committed to building and maintaining the digital infrastructure that will enable the UK to thrive in an increasingly connected world. Whether it’s supporting community spirit in Littlehampton, bringing connectivity to rural communities in Wales, pioneering air quality monitoring in Glasgow, or driving innovation in remote Torr, our mission is clear: at Cornerstone, your connected world is always within reach.  

Connected Britain is a celebration of the achievements of our industry, but from our position, with the largest digital infrastructure in the UK, we know that many people and places are still left behind—without the basic and necessary mobile services that so many rely on. Every day, we design, build, and finance new sites or upgrades across our digital estate. And every single day, we operate and look after our network of 15,700 sites to ensure reliability and resilience for our customers. 

More than any other provider in the UK, we are safeguarding the critical infrastructure of the mobile sector. But we still face challenges in some areas where we can’t yet celebrate, held back by the need for more pragmatic reform of town planning. This reform is essential to bring 4G and 5G to over 3,000 places where we’re eager to invest. It’s about more than connectivity—it’s about enabling job creation and driving digital inclusion. 

The stories I’ve shared today are a testament to the real impact our infrastructure has on communities across the UK. But we have much more to do, and my appeal is simple: we need to work collectively, across public and private partnerships, to create an effective framework for digital infrastructure planning, one that attracts investment and builds a country for growth. 

At Cornerstone, your connected world is always within reach. 

Jamie