Boost to mobile speeds in Reading as Virgin O2 deploys small cells

Mobile users in Reading town centre are soon to benefit from faster speeds as the first small cells from Virgin Media O2 are deployed across the borough.

The provider has partnered with wireless infrastructure firm Ontix to bring small cells, which are quicker and easier to deploy than traditional cells, to the busiest areas of town, including the station and Oracle shopping centre.

The two have previously worked together on deployments in London, Birmingham and elsewhere in the South East.

Richard Williams, director of acquisition at Ontix, said: “We’re proud to be the first neutral host company bringing small cells to Reading.

“Working closely with Virgin Media O2, we ensured the delivery of this project was speedy, cost-effective and power-efficient.

“From local businesses, commuters and university students to shoppers and tourists seeking cultural hotspots, small cells provide faster network speeds and reduced network congestion for all, and we’re excited to see the results of this across Reading.”

Steven Verigotta, director of radio and mobile backhaul delivery at Virgin Media O2, added: “Small cells are an effective way of increasing local network bandwidth in busy areas and play an important role in allowing us to keep up with customer demand.

“With upgrade programmes underway right across our network, we’re working hard to ensure our customers consistently receive an exceptional network experience wherever they are and even at the busiest times.”