Private 5G networks across West Sussex are to be deployed to boost local food and wine production using testing sensors, drones, and cameras.
The initiative has been given a £3.8 million grant from the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology It brings together a consortium including West Sussex County Council, West Sussex Growers, Brighton University, local education centres, and commercial producers.
Shared network infrastructure provider Boldyn Networks will design and build four high-bandwidth private 5G networks to be installed at two grower sites and participating colleges set to launch early next year
The project’s ultimate goal is to make West Sussex a leader in sustainable agriculture and viticulture.
The project is part of the ‘Growing Sussex 5G Innovation Region to trial automation and real-time remote monitoring to improve farming efficiency and increase adoption of 5G technology in agriculture to improve productivity, yields, and profitability.
The region’s horticulture industry generates £1 billion in annual sales and employs 10,000 full-time workers. 5G technology is expected to boost productivity.
Rachael Williams, of the West Sussex Growers’ Association said: “This technology has the potential to improve growing practices. Growers will gain better quality data, enabling improved decision-making and increased yields”
Paul Rolfe, Associate Principal at Chichester College Group, said, “Through technologies like AI, precision studies, and real-time data, we are driving a sustainable food revolution. This project ensures that future leaders are prepared to shape the future of farming in both the UK and globally.”
Steve Waight, West Sussex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Digital Infrastructure, highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the UK’s Food Strategy, noting, “Sussex offers a fertile environment for sustainable food and drink production. By equipping the workforce with modern digital skills, we are creating opportunities not only in agriculture but also in education, encouraging new career paths in horticulture, agriculture, and viticulture
