UK mobile operator EE has paired with infrastructure-as-a-service provider Ontix to deploy 80 small cells across central London.

The small cells have been installed in across the City of Westminster, in some of the busiest areas of the city.

The masts support both 4G and 5G traffic, noted EE.

EE launched its first 5G small cells in August, deploying its first 5G sites in Croydon, London.

Small cells take advantage of existing street assets, such as BT telephone boxes and digital Street Hubs, lamp posts, and CCTV columns.

They are seen as a simpler alternative to bulkier telecom infrastructure, which might look out of place or draw criticism from residents.

EE stated that along with Ontix, through carefully preparing each location in advance, it was "able to reduce deployment time and minimize disruption in these high-traffic areas."

"This innovative small cell deployment with Ontix enhances 4G and 5G mobile connectivity for EE customers across the City of Westminster, one of London’s busiest areas serving not only as the center of UK government but also a focal point for tourism and business," said James Hope, director of mobile radio access networks at EE.

"This project is the latest milestone in our network densification efforts as we continue to boost mobile capacity where it’s needed most across the UK.”

Ontix has previously supported small cell deployments for Virgin Media O2, another UK telco in Birmingham, Plymouth, and Reading.