NATS partners with Shared Access
Independent owner and operator of shared wireless infrastructure, Shared Access, has entered an agreement with air traffic service provider, NATS, to acquire marketing and development rights for opportunities across key NATS sites.
Above:
NATS' control centre in Prestwick.
Courtesy NATS
The new deal marks phase two of a collaboration that began in 2018 with an initial five sites being transferred to Shared Access, bringing dedicated TowerCo expertise to NATS. Shared Access will deliver its established knowledge of managing Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Wireless Network provider tenants.
The consolidated NATS deal, builds on the nationwide communications network of sites owned by Shared Access, at a key time when the rollout of 5G infrastructure will define UK’s communications standards and capabilities.
The NATS locations will add to the existing Shared Access portfolio of more than 30,000 available key sites, which combined with Shared Access’s strong investment capability will enable rapid development of new strategically located communication sites, complete with fibre connectivity. This strength will help mobile and wireless operators to bring more consumers and business users 5G services. Existing Shared Access site locations include well located sports - football, rugby, and lawn tennis clubs, as well as churches, providing mobile coverage at the heart of communities nationally.
The unique partnership sees NATS continue to work with Shared Access in the development and use of strategically located NATS sites. The deal brings both established and new build wireless communications infrastructure to the market benefiting key airport locations together with the surrounding cities, towns and villages, futureproofing mobile connectivity.
Chris Jackman, Chief Executive Officer of Shared Access, said: “This is a hugely significant partnership, an investment in the connectivity of the future. It builds on the working relationship we have established with NATS, taking it to a new level. Along with well-located strategic tower assets, we plan to deliver services that enable access to fibre connectivity. This all means Mobile Network Operators and Wireless Network providers can deliver 5G wireless at major scale.”
Paul Hughes, Head of Assets and Development at NATS, commented: “We're delighted to be extending our partnership with Shared Access, whose expertise will mean that our assets can play a full role in helping develop connectivity across the country. This is an innovative and imaginative deal that we believe will be a great success."