Ashurst advises BAI Communications on Vodafone and Virgin Media O2 partnerships
14 July 2022
The deal between the two networks and BAI will mean customers of all four major network operators – Three, EE, Vodafone and Virgin Media O2, are now set to have access to high-speed mobile coverage across the London Underground.
BAI, which has been awarded a 20-year concession with Transport for London to deliver mobile connectivity on the Underground, will work with the four major networks to enhance the passenger experience and secure London’s transformation into a smart city. All stations and tunnels are due to have full high-quality and uninterrupted mobile coverage by the end of 2024.
Work on delivering 4G mobile coverage across the London Underground tube network has already begun. Bank, Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road, Euston and Camden Town are named as the first stations to gain network coverage within the next six months. This commitment came following a successful pilot scheme on the eastern end of the Jubilee line.
The Ashurst team was led by digital economy partner Amanda Hale, assisted by partner Nick Elverston, as well as consultant Marcus Turle, senior associate Rebecca Clarke and associate Matthew Hewitson. The BAI legal team was led by Amanda Moore, General Counsel of BAI.
Amanda Hale commented:
"We are honoured to be involved in this landmark partnership which will allow high-speed mobile connectivity for all major mobile networks on the London Underground. Following the success of the pilot scheme on the eastern end of the Jubilee line, we are confident that BAI’s recent partnerships will accelerate London’s transformation into a smart city."
