The challenge
The Smart Infrastructure Pilots Programme (SIPP), run by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), aims to:
- enhance the understanding and benefits of using street furniture and other assets for mobile network deployment
- improve the realisation of 5G and advanced wireless connectivity benefits
- promote knowledge of future infrastructure demands
- create efficiencies in network rollout and innovative commercial models
The solution
Oxfordshire County Council received £250k funding to purchase and test 14 smart, multi-purpose lighting columns for mobile and wireless connectivity.
These columns will create a 1.5km ‘connected corridor’ from Oxford train station to the city centre, providing free Wi-Fi and other connectivity options for various uses, including tourism, transport, and local commerce. This project serves as a sandbox environment to test multiple use cases, with potential for expansion if successful.
We are collaborating with Oxfordshire County Council’s Digitial Infrastructure Team on this delivery, combining skills such as:
- bid writing
- end-to-end project management
- technical expertise in smart infrastructure and Internet of Things (IoT)
The results
Our technical knowledge and local context have enabled us to explore the opportunities that quantum provides. Working collaboratively with Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (OxLEP), we have explored what infrastructure the growing industry will need, including lab space and business support. Our unique position within a local authority allows us to identify and quantify which challenges within the governmental sector quantum may help to unlock. The benefits report demonstrated significant economic and social advantages. In contrast, the use case report provided practical examples of how local authorities could apply quantum technology to solve real-world problems, such as transport challenges.
The project resulted in a clear roadmap for supporting the quantum technology sector in Oxfordshire. This strategic approach has positioned Oxfordshire as a key player in the quantum technology landscape and laid the groundwork for future growth and innovation.
Infleqtion helping ignite UK quantum growth – Harwell Campus.