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Atkins explores benefits of improved connectivity on UK roads for Government study

22 August 2018

Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group, will be carrying out a 5G feasibility study to explore the benefits of increased investment in upgrading the connectivity on UK roads. The study will identify the short- and medium-term demand for connectivity, to ensure the road network is fit for the future. SNC-Lavalin’s Atkins business were appointed by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) in the first step of the Government’s £5m plan to improve future productivity through trialling 5G connectivity on the road network. The feasibility study is due to be completed in December 2018. SNC-Lavalin acquired WS Atkins plc on July 3, 2017.

Upgrading the digital infrastructure on the UK’s roads will offer transport users more reliable and consistent connectivity. The increased capabilities will also help to future-proof the country’s infrastructure, as Connected and Autonomous Vehicles become more commonplace on our roads.

Margot James, Minister for Digital and the Creative Industries said: “We’re carefully considering the best ways for both new and existing infrastructure to deliver 5G connectivity for a Britain that’s fit for the future. I want this feasibility study, and any trials that may follow it, to help both Government and industry solve some of the key challenges to deploying 5G infrastructure on our roads.”

Fraser Sommerville, project director in the transportation division of SNC-Lavalin’s Atkins business comments: “The feasibility study will examine how to best future-proof the transport network, as technology advances and the demand for connectivity continues to grow. By the end of the study, we hope to have a clearer view of transport users’ future needs, and new business models for attracting commercial investment into the upgrade of our road network’s digital infrastructure.

SNC-Lavalin’s Atkins business will work in partnership with Real Wireless and White Willow to carry out the feasibility study, as well as collaborating closely with mobile network operators (MNOs) and Highways England, to determine the potential for investment into connectivity improvements. Stakeholders from a wider range of organisations will also be involved, to provide their perspective on future demand and alternative commercial models that can secure funding for the improvement of connectivity. The study will examine the potential of a trial in the West Midlands.

For more information on intelligent mobility: www.atkinsglobal.com/im.

Ends

Notes to editors:

About Atkins
Atkins (www.atkinsglobal.com) is one of the world’s most respected design, engineering and project management consultancies, employing over 18, 300 people across the UK, North America, Middle East and Africa, Asia Pacific and Europe. We build long-term trusted partnerships to create a world where lives are enriched through the implementation of our ideas. You can view Atkins’ recent projects here.

About SNC-Lavalin
Founded in 1911, SNC-Lavalin is a global fully integrated professional services and project management company and a major player in the ownership of infrastructure. From offices around the world, SNC-Lavalin's employees are proud to build what matters. Our teams provide comprehensive end-to-end project solutions – including capital investment, consulting, design, engineering, construction, sustaining capital and operations and maintenance – to clients across oil and gas, mining and metallurgy, infrastructure, clean power, nuclear and EDPM (engineering design and project management). On July 3, 2017, SNC-Lavalin acquired Atkins, one of the world’s most respected design, engineering and project management consultancies, which has been integrated into our sectors. www.snclavalin.com
 
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