BT and Belfast Harbour partner in UK-first 5G ports network

BT and Belfast Harbour are partnering to build a new 5G ecosystem which is due to go live across the 2,000-acre port estate early next year.

BT’s Paul Murnaghan (left) and harbour chief executive Joe O’Neill with 5G remote controlled inspection technology, which will improve productivity and safety measures by reducing the need for staff to work at height. Picture: Matt Mackey/Press Eye

As part of the deal, BT will build and manage a live 5G work designed specifically to achieve the highest levels of ultra-fast mobile connectivity, coverage, reliability and security across the port’s main operational areas.

The highly secure and scalable network will enhance safety, security and sustainability across the harbour estate, which handles around two thirds of Northern Ireland’s entire seaborne trade.

The link-up follows a successful UK-first trial of 5G technology by both parties last year and supports the harbour’s ambitions to become the world’s best regional smart port.

Paul Murnaghan, regional director for BT’s Enterprise division in Northern Ireland, said: “Our trial with Belfast Harbour last year was a powerful illustration of how 5G-led technology can transform its operations, propel the success of local businesses and drive economic growth . . . . .

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