IMI

The deployment of telecommunications networks, like 5G, requires close collaboration between public administrations and private companies to optimise infrastructures and improve connectivity in spaces with a high concentration of people, such as stadiums, shopping centres and urban areas during large-scale events.

Telecommunications experts, including Paco Rodríguez, who represented IMI, recently took part in a discussion on the challenges and opportunities presented by the deployment of new telecommunications networks, such as 5G, at a conference organised by the newspaper Expansión and the company Cellnex, focused on collaboration between public administrations and private companies and improving connectivity in areas with large numbers of people.

During the discussion, they identified the need for coordinated management to streamline infrastructures and facilitate the installation of systems such as distributed antenna systems (DAS) and “Small Cells”, to guarantee a better service at sports events, concerts and other large-sale events.

In this context, urban assets such as bus shelters and advertising structures can be used to efficiently install telecommunications equipment. EU regulations require access to such elements to be facilitated through regulated mechanisms that ensure a balance between public and private interests.

Experts point out that the future of connectivity entails creating a collaborative ecosystem in which operators can share infrastructures to offer a high quality service. This model also entails establishing regulatory frameworks to speed up administrative procedures and foster sustainable investment.

The IMI is working to establish the terms of this collaboration and to consolidate a model that places the city of Barcelona at the forefront of the search for the most innovative and sustainable solutions.

The IMI plays a key role in defining municipal strategies for managing telecommunications infrastructures. This includes providing access to available urban assets, such as bus shelters and advertising structures, in accordance with European regulations, and ensuring that these resources are managed transparently and efficiently to benefit both operators and citizens. The implementation of these systems not only improves the user experience, it also creates new business opportunities and opportunities for technological development.

It was concluded that overcoming bureaucratic hurdles and fostering active dialogue between the various stakeholders in the sector is essential to ensure an optimal connectivity experience for citizens.

You can read the full news article published in the Expansión newspaper here.