Lampposts across a borough will be fitted with Wi-Fi access points and small cell units to improve mobile coverage.

A 10-year deal between Waltham Forest Council and Arqiva was announced this week which allows the infrastructure company exclusive access to 16,000 lampposts.

The units inserted into street furniture in areas where demand for mobile coverage is high will allow people to continue using their smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices without any interruptions.

The cell units are also crucial for the company’s plans to deliver 5G networks in the future.

Nicolas Ott, Managing Director of Telecoms & M2M at Arqiva, said: “As data and voice usage increases exponentially, it is fast becoming essential for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to deliver sufficient outdoor connectivity for their customers in dense urban areas.

“Arqiva’s portfolio of communications sites means we are uniquely able to help the MNOs deliver the required coverage and capacity, whether it is towers and rooftops for macro sites, or street furniture for small cells.

“Local authorities are recognising how important connectivity is for their residents and business and we are excited to be working with Waltham Forest as our 14th London Borough partner.”

Cllr Liaquat Ali MBE, Cabinet Member for Transformation and Commercial Services at Waltham Forest Council, praised the company’s “forward-thinking idea”.

He said: “I’m really pleased to welcome Arqiva to Waltham Forest as we help our residents move toward a digital future.

“We use digital technology more every day to carry out jobs from ordering shopping and services, to keeping in touch with friends and relatives, to accessing council services.

“To do this we need fast online access – and that is precisely what this agreement brings for residents and visitors.”