EE has extended its network coverage in London with the launch of 25 small cell sites.

The telco worked with telecoms infrastructure provider Freshwave to deploy the sites across the City of London.

Freshwave provides infrastructure-as-a-service to the UK's telco providers. EE was the first carrier to go live on Freshwave's network back in 2022.

The sites will provide additional capacity for EE's 4G and 5G networks in London's financial districts, while Freshwave noted that "dozens of additional new sites for EE are also currently being built."

Outdoor small cells are typically fixed to existing street furniture, such as lampposts.

They are seen as a simpler alternative to bulkier telecom infrastructure, which might look out of place or draw criticism from residents.

Freshwave notes that its infrastructure includes specially designed wideband antennas, cabinets and columns, and extensive dark fiber to each cabinet.

EE's 25 live sites are located throughout the Square Mile, including notable landmarks such as outside St Paul’s Cathedral, Cannon Street, and the Bank of England on Threadneedle Street.

“We believe that multi-operator, shareable digital infrastructure is the future of mobile connectivity," said Simon Frumkin, Freshwave’s CEO.

"Our unique approach allows the mobile network operators to enhance their networks where they need it most with minimal disruption for the surrounding communities and we’re looking forward to continuing to expand the network.” 

James Hope, director of mobile radio access networks at EE, added: "Outdoor small cells are an important part of our mobile network."

Freshwave has previously worked with Virgin Media O2 to deploy small cell sites in Manchester, UK.