Mobile network operator Virgin Media O2 has paired once again with Freshwave to deploy small cells in the UK.

This time, the installation has been carried out in Canterbury, Kent, where four 4G/5G small cells have been deployed.

Infrastructure-as-a-service provider Freshwave has worked closely with Kent County Council to deploy the sites across some of the busiest areas of Canterbury.

Small cells are designed to enhance mobile capacity and reduce network congestion in densely populated areas.

They are typically fixed to existing street furniture, such as lamp posts, and are seen as a simpler alternative to bulkier telecom infrastructure, which might look out of place or draw criticism from residents.

Freshwave said the small cells have been deployed in the city center in areas such as Clocktower Square and the Whitefriars retail quarter.

The company's partnership with Kent County Council is under an open access agreement. As noted by Freshwave, these agreements are non-exclusive, allowing local authorities to work with multiple mobile network operators and grant access to the use of their street assets for digital connectivity.

"Working in partnership is key to delivering mobile connectivity, and these new small cells demonstrate how local authorities and industry can work together to improve coverage where people need it most," said Neil Barnes, mobile network operator account director, Freshwave.

Professor Rob Joyce, director of mobile access engineering at O2, added: “These new small cells will help support residents, businesses, and visitors in some of the busiest areas, providing O2 customers with a reliable mobile experience whether they’re exploring landmarks, enjoying local attractions, or staying connected on the go.”

In total, Freshwave has signed more than 40 open access agreements with local authorities across the UK and has deployed more than 800 small cells on behalf of the MNOs.

The company has partnered with Virgin Media O2 on several occasions, supporting small cell deployments for the telco in Guildford, Cornwall, and in Manchester.