£500k investment will see Boldyn Networks establish 5G Innovation Lab
Boldyn Networks is establishing it a private 5G network-enabled Innovation Lab that is poised to transform the Port of Blyth into the North East’s leading technology hub and offer unparalleled access to 5G technology for regional industries.
Boldyn Networks will create an environment where businesses of all sizes can develop and test 5G-based products, fostering growth and innovation in key sectors, including the offshore renewable energy (ORE) industry.
With an investment of over half a million pounds from the North East Combined Authority’s 5G Innovation Acceleration programme, Boldyn Networks will design and construct a secure, high-bandwidth private 5G network. This network will act as a proving ground for Industry 4.0, enabling businesses to trial new ideas, understand 5G, and develop solutions before committing to significant investment.
The lab will cultivate a collaborative ecosystem, attracting investment and creating skilled jobs within the region. Businesses of all sizes will benefit from dedicated innovation facilities, co-working spaces, and specialised equipment, allowing them to test and demonstrate their technologies in real-world conditions with dependable, high-speed communications. Local organisations will also be involved in the project to assist regional businesses in scaling up, innovating, and accessing funding for 5G advancements.
Local educational institutions, such as Bede College and Advance Northumberland, will also gain from this initiative by incorporating a more digitally-focused curriculum for their STEM students and providing industry-specific training.
Alasdair Kerr, Commercial Director at Port of Blyth said: “We are delighted to welcome the first ever 5G Innovation Lab to Blyth. At the Port of Blyth, we pride ourselves on offering turnkey solutions to our customers. The Innovation Lab will provide a unique digital offering, enabling the exploration of innovative 5G technology solutions for the offshore renewable energy sector from a state-of-the-art facility on site.”
Fionnuala Furmston, Head of UK Sales Private Networks at Boldyn Networks, added: “Boldyn Networks is delighted to bring our private 5G networks expertise to create the Port of Blyth’s 5G Innovation Lab. The new hub will unleash the region’s potential paving the way for new digital solutions that support a smarter and greener future for the UK.”
The official launch is scheduled for September, welcoming all industries to explore the latest use cases and unlock the future of Industry 4.0 evolution.
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