VMO2 deploys more small cells in Birmingham with Ontix

Summary: Virgin Media O2 and Ontix deployed five new 4G small-cell sites in Soho Road and Handsworth, Birmingham, to increase local mobile capacity and reduce congestion during busy periods.

What was deployed

The project uses compact street-level base stations installed on existing infrastructure such as lamp posts. Small cells add capacity in high-demand areas without requiring a conventional large mobile mast at every location.

Why these areas were selected

Soho Road and Handsworth are busy residential and commercial areas where additional network capacity can improve access for residents, visitors and local businesses. The deployment was supported by Birmingham City Council and the Soho Road Business Improvement District.

How the project was delivered

Ontix delivered the neutral-host infrastructure for Virgin Media O2. According to Ontix, a 2022 Open Access Agreement with Birmingham City Council enabled the partners to use suitable council-owned street assets and helped streamline deployment.

Practical significance

• Five new 4G small-cell sites add capacity in two high-demand areas.
• Using existing street infrastructure can reduce disruption and speed up deployment.
• The project extends earlier small-cell work by Virgin Media O2 and Ontix in Birmingham.

Original sources: Ontix — Virgin Media O2 and Ontix use small cells to boost Birmingham connectivity; Total Telecom — VMO2 deploys more small cells in Birmingham with Ontix

Independently summarized and reviewed by CNB Telecom. Last reviewed: September 8, 2026.