How the Northeast of England is driving 5G and wireless innovation

Rob Hamilton, chief economist at the North East Combined Authority, added: “Technology must serve a purpose, driving real benefits for businesses and communities across the Northeast. 

“5G infrastructure is underpinning the region’s ambitions for economic resilience, digital inclusion and future skills development.” 

The showcase event focused on the impressive progress across four main projects, each demonstrating the role of advanced wireless technologies, including 5G, in reshaping regional industries: 

Connected Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS)

This leverages 5G to improve the movement of people and goods across the region. “5G connectivity is enabling real-time traffic management, multimodal journey planning and enhanced safety measures,” said Mark Wilson from Sunderland City Council’s Highways Authority. “By integrating live data, we are creating a smarter, more efficient transport network across our region, whilst demonstrating how this can be transferred and implemented throughout the UK.” 

Adrian Molloy, head of delivery at Boldyn Networks, discussed the role of 5G private networks in enabling autonomous vehicle integration and AI-driven analytics for transport efficiency. Simon Edwards, senior researcher in Inclusive Mobility at Newcastle University, further emphasised the role of CITS in supporting connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) trials, highlighting the potential for real-time data exchange between vehicles and infrastructure to optimise mobility solutions. 

Creative industries

Two use cases were introduced in the field of creative industries: live 360 degree video broadcasting and the Sunderland Expo Pavilion, one of the UK’s largest immersive screens, developed in collaboration with Animmersion and ArtAV.

“The Expo Pavilion serves as a dynamic digital canvas, showcasing the city’s culture, music and heritage,” said Marion Dixon, assistant director Regulatory Services and Events at Sunderland City Council. “It’s been incredible to see live demonstrations in Keel Square – broadcast in real time using 5G-enabled cameras and dual-SIM broadcasting technology – redefining audience engagement as we merge technology and creativity to bring digital content to life in public spaces.” 

Smart port

  
On the second day, attendees visited Port of Tyne’s Innovation Hub, where Dr Jo North, innovation ecosystem director, and Mark Stoner, chief financial officer at the port, highlighted how 5G is transforming port operations. “The expansion of our private 5G network, in partnership with BT and Ericsson, is enabling real-time monitoring of road conditions, vehicle movements and environmental impact,” said Stoner. “This enhanced connectivity allows us to proactively manage safety risks, optimise logistics and improve operational efficiency across the port. 

“By leveraging data-driven insights, we are creating a smarter, safer and more sustainable port environment that supports the wider supply chain and maritime industry.” 

The implementation of AI-enhanced monitoring, vehicle tracking and automated maintenance insights, are further reinforcing the port’s vision to become a smart, green and fully connected logistics hub.

Agritech

 
The showcase concluded with a visit to Newcastle University’s Nafferton Farm, where attendees explored advanced wireless farm sensors for soil health monitoring and methane reduction. Dr Elisa Lopez Capel, senior lecturer in soil science at Newcastle University, demonstrated how LoRaWAN-connected sensors are providing continuous soil condition data, while James Standen, director of Newcastle University Farms, detailed the use of IoT technology in precision agriculture to improve sustainability and efficiency.

Dr Hannah Davis of Newcastle University introduced the methane monitoring use case, explaining its critical role in reducing agriculture’s carbon footprint. By leveraging advanced wireless infrastructure, researchers have developed low-cost methane sensors, which are now installed in the dairy parlour at Nafferton Farm. This technology advances environmental sustainability whilst unlocking opportunities for carbon credits and additional revenue streams.