A 5G testbed in South East Wales, a technology that is ten times faster than 4G, has secured a multi-million pound funding boost.
The CoCore testbed project will receive £5m from the UK Government to fund trials connecting rural communities across Monmouthshire and Blaenau Gwent and demonstrating how the technology can be a force for good and open up new opportunities for businesses and residents.
It will also drive the adoption of new technologies such as driverless cars, remote healthcare and the smart' devices that are increasingly being used in the workplace and at home.
The project will provide innovative solutions in areas such as immersive tourism and farming security as key parts of the rural economy, whilst leveraging related technologies such as AI the Internet of Things and cyber security.
It is one of nine project winners across the UK that have come through UK Government rural and industrial 5G competitions with a combined funding of £35m.
Announcing the funding Digital Secretary, Oliver Dowden, said: "The CoCore 5G testbed will receive £5m in UK Government funding to connect rural communities across Monmouthshire and Blaenau Gwent by demonstrating how 5G technology can be a force for good and open up new opportunities for businesses and citizens."
Secretary of State for Wales Simon Hart said: “The UK Government is committed to eliminating the difference in connection between urban and rural areas whilst exploring innovative ways to use 5G technology to develop emerging industries, supporting our rural economy in Wales.
“Today’s announcement is a great opportunity for rural parts of Wales to boost the productivity and capacity of their digital infrastructure and forms a key part of our plans to build a UK which is fit for the future.”
Deputy Minister for Economy Lee Waters said: “I am delighted by this investment in Wales through the Rural Connected Communities Competition.
"This exciting project aligns with our ambition to exploit digital connectivity and cutting edge technologies to drive new markets and enhance economic growth across Wales.
“We are committed to connecting communities. Digital infrastructure and 5G connectivity are critical to providing the services needed to provide social and economic prosperity.
“The true measure of success will be what we do with 5G. I look forward to seeing how this project through its innovative partners, such as Cisco, can make the most of the benefits of this technology to realise positive social and economic impact here in Wales, and beyond.”
