A lead supplier has been appointed in a £3.8 million 5G project for five tourism projects in the Borderlands region.
The project, which includes Windermere Ferry and The Sill near Hadrian’s Wall, will be led by AWTG Ltd.
The Borderlands Partnership has secured the funding from the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology to develop and deliver the Borderlands 5G Innovation Region Programme.
It said: “Through investing in advanced wireless coverage and smart technology at five sites across the Borderlands region, the programme seeks to understand the potential for this technology to contribute to the rural tourism sector.”
The other venues are The Crook Inn on the Destination Tweed trail, Kielder Castle and Water and Stranraer Marina.
Abbey Alidoosti, CEO of AWTG, said: “With the joint efforts of AWTG and the Borderlands Partnership, we’re bridging the digital divide, bringing the future of connectivity to England and Scotland. This transformation will help boost tourism and foster community growth through wireless connectivity and digital advancements.”
Survey work has already begun, with an ambition of the Borderlands 5G Innovation venues to begin to benefit from this investment by the beginning of next year.
Jonathan Brook, leader of Westmorland & Furness Council and Borderlands Partnership Board co-chair said: “Improving digital infrastructure, supporting innovation and encouraging sustainable tourism are top priorities for the Borderlands Partnership. I am proud that Borderlands has been selected as one of the UK’s 10 5G Innovation Regions.”
