Plans unveiled to build new 5G mast in busy part of Northampton

Plans have been submitted by Vodafone to erect a 20-metre high 5G mast near to the Bedford Road, in Northampton.

According to the planning application submitted by Vodafone, there is already a mast on the site but this will be replaced with a new 5G one.

Vodafone said in the application: "Vodafone has a clear requirement for an upgraded installation within this particular area, to provide for 5G services.

"Vodafone considers that the proposed development strikes an appropriate balance between the technical needs of the site and the advantages that this type of technology brings, with the requirement to ensure that any impact on the appearance and character of the area and building is the minimum possible."

As well as enabling the delivery of 5G, the mast will also increase the capacity of the 2G/3G/4G network which is incredibly stretched in urban areas due to local demand on the service, a Vodafone spokesman said.

The mast is planned to be erected on the verge area in front of the pavement on the northern side of Bedford Road in front of Imperial Cars houses.

For more information or to object to the application, click here.

There are 24 streets in Northampton that have been given approval as a site for a 5G capable mast.Mobile UK, the industry body for all four UK mobile networks, said 5G is a 'true game changer technology'.

The industry body says on its website there are three key benefits of 5G, which are faster download speeds, lower latency, or in simple terms less lag when playing games, and greater capacity to deal with data demands.

Mobile UK also outlined the economic benefits of 5G.

"5G has the potential to radically transform UK productivity and prosperity. In some cases, the potential of 5G has been likened to the fourth industrial revolution.

"The Future Communications Challenge Group has estimated that the economic impact of 5G on the UK could be around £112bn in 2020 per annum, rising to £164bn in 2030. In other words, about £2,500 per head of population.

"O2 found that by 2026 the direct economic benefits of 5G rollout will beat those of broadband and these would be delivered almost twice as quickly as traditional fibre," a Mobile UK spokesman said.

Examples where 5G could be used in a real life situation, according to Mobile UK, include:

Optimised services – utilisation of smart bins and intelligent lighting could save councils £2.8 billion a year.

Remote health services – NHS could see up to 1.1 million GP hours freed up through telehealth services.

Connected cars – 5G will be critical to connected cars which will require a constant and guaranteed connection.

Holographic video – industrial equipment could be controlled remotely helping increase worker safety and 3D medical imaging and remote surgery could become a reality.