Faster, more reliable connection
The rollout of gigabit-capable broadband, with the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology
To get homes and businesses in remote locations connected, alternative wireless solutions may be needed, such as fixed wireless access or satellite.
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) wanted to better understand the potential of these wireless solutions – by improving their geospatial modelling, which would also inform future policy creation for Project Gigabit.
"The modelling capability we've developed as part of this project, built using OS data, will be an invaluable tool to help us assess the options for improving internet connectivity to very remote premises. "
To provide support, an OS Technical Consultant was seconded to DSIT for nine months, using their knowledge and expertise to create a clutter model, undertaking 'line of sight', or 'viewshed' analysis.
A clutter model contains information about the height of obstacles which may block the fixed wireless access signal from a mast getting to a premises, such as other buildings and trees.
Once the OS and third-party data was added to the model, the line of sight could be calculated for each mast, establishing whether a premises had reach.
DSIT can now create a mast coverage map, helping them build a picture of nationwide coverage. This will help them understand the most cost effective means of completing Project Gigabit, and get those who are ‘hard to reach’, connected.
The secondment was funded by the Public Sector Geospatial Agreement (PSGA).
Find out more about the Public Sector Geospatial Agreement
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