Vertical: Ports
Application: Innovation Hub
Ecosystem: Boldyn Networks
Private Network: 5G
The Port of Blyth in Northeast England is poised for a technological revolution as Boldyn Networks announces plans to establish a private 5G network-enabled Innovation Lab. This groundbreaking initiative aims to transform the port into the region’s premier technology hub, offering unprecedented access to 5G technology for various industries, with a particular focus on the offshore renewable energy sector.
Backed by over half a million pounds from the North East Combined Authority’s 5G Innovation Acceleration program, Boldyn Networks will design and implement a secure, high-bandwidth private 5G network. This advanced infrastructure will serve as a crucial testing ground for Industry 4.0 technologies, allowing businesses to experiment with new ideas and develop 5G-based solutions before committing to costly investments.
The Innovation Lab is set to foster a collaborative ecosystem that will attract investment and generate skilled jobs within the region. Businesses of all sizes will benefit from dedicated innovation facilities, co-working spaces, and specialized equipment. These resources will enable companies to test and demonstrate their technologies in real-world conditions with reliable, high-speed communications.
Local organizations will also play a vital role in the project, helping businesses in the region to scale up, innovate, and access funding for 5G innovation. Furthermore, educational institutions such as Bede College and Advance Northumberland will benefit from the initiative, integrating more digitally skilled curricula for their STEM students and providing industry-specific training.
Cllr Nick Kemp, portfolio holder for the economy at the North East Combined Authority and leader of Newcastle City Council, highlighted the project’s significance. He emphasized that this initiative will remove barriers to accessing, testing, and piloting 5G technology solutions for manufacturing and services companies within the Port of Blyth and the broader North East region. Kemp also noted that the project demonstrates the Combined Authority’s commitment to fostering innovation, creating high-skilled jobs, and supporting the green economy and offshore energy to achieve net-zero goals.
Alasdair Kerr, Commercial Director at Port of Blyth said, “We are thrilled to host the first-ever 5G Innovation Lab in Blyth. The lab will offer unique digital solutions, enabling exploration of innovative 5G technology for the offshore renewable energy sector from a state-of-the-art facility on-site.”
“We are excited to bring our expertise in private 5G networks to establish the Port of Blyth’s 5G Innovation Lab. This new hub will unlock the region’s potential, paving the way for new digital solutions that support a smarter and greener future for the UK, ” said Fionnuala Furmston, Head of UK Sales Private Networks at Boldyn Networks.
The official launch of the Innovation Lab is planned for September, and it will welcome all industries to test out the latest use cases, unlocking the future of Industry 4.0 evolution. This initiative not only positions the Port of Blyth as a key player in the UK’s technological advancement but also aligns with broader goals to boost innovation, create high-skilled jobs, and support the transition to net-zero in the Northeast region.
