Case Study- first direct arena, Leeds, UK
SOLiD & Boldyn Networks Partnership
SOLiD, in partnership with Boldyn Networks, is proud to announce the implementation of one of the UK’s first, 5G neutral host networks at the first direct arena in Leeds, UK.
SOLiD, in partnership with Boldyn Networks, is proud to announce the implementation of one of the UK’s first, 5G neutral host networks at the first direct arena in Leeds, UK. This project will deliver updated technology to provide a substantial increase in mobile data capacity that can meet and exceed visitor expectations and provide seamless connectivity across all four major network operators.
Entertainment-focused arenas can provide some unique challenges when it comes to ensuring a fast and reliable signal. Locations such as this can cover an enormous amount of floor space and extend to multiple areas creating coverage challenges. Customer traffic can also be variable so any solution needs to account for significant numbers of users. In addition, the nature of the venue results in a significant amount of high bandwidth traffic e.g. live streaming to friends and family, which can provide a challenge for solutions of this type.
This project also required upgrades to infrastructure that was already 10 years old. Mobile adoption and usage has grown significantly during his time and the type of mobile applications in common use have changed to include more bandwidth heavy video and social media. In addition, the adoption of mobile payments has increased, placing additional demons on the network. Therefore, not only were the mobile data requirments of visitors important, the solution also needed to provide low latency connectivity to facilitate mobile payments throughout the venue.
“At ASM Global, we are continually striving to elevate the experience for all of our guests, and collaborating with innovative partners helps us keep our finger on the pulse. So we are naturally very excited to bring 5G to the very first UK arena alongside the team at Boldyn Networks. Soon, guests at the first direct arena in Leeds will be able to experience live entertainment with complete connectivity, and not only that, there’ll also be vast improvements operationally, with high-speed 5G allowing our team on the ground to be even more agile in a fast-paced environment.”
- Chris Bray, Executive Vice President Europe - ASM Global
The first direct arena is located in Leeds in the north of England and was originally opened in 2013. It is the first arena of its type in the UK to have a unique “super theatre” design that ensures that visitors are no more than 68m for the stage. It has a capacity of just under 14,000 and was named “Best new venue in the world” by the Stadium Business Awards in 2014.
“ We are incredibly proud to collaborate with first direct arena on this pioneering project. The launch of the UK’s first 5G neutral host arena represents a significant leap forward in delivering seamless, high-speed connectivity for both fans and venue operators. This collaboration highlights our shared commitment to working with venues, including through our partnership with ASM Global, to revolutionise the visitor experience and set a new standard for connectivity in entertainment venues.”
- Paul Osborne, Chief Commercial Officer, UK & Ireland at Boldyn Networks
The venue has played host to a variety of events including some of the biggest names in music, comedy and sports. It’s cutting-edge design keeps visitors close to the action and provides exceptional visibility for everyone in attendance. Given the innovative design of the facility, any connectivity solution needed to be seamlessly integrated into the structure. SOLiD’s DAS solution combined low and medium-power antennas that were both visually appealing and offered lower power consumption without compromising coverage.
" I am thrilled to announce our partnership with Boldyn in implementing a cutting-edge 5G wireless infrastructure solution at the first direct arena in Leeds. This project underscores our commitment to delivering top-tier connectivity solutions, while also highlighting the strength of our relationship with Boldyn. Together, we are revolutionizing wireless connectivity, providing a neutral host platform that ensures seamless and reliable coverage for all patrons. This collaboration is a testament to our dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction, and we look forward to providing the arena and its visitors with unmatched connectivity experiences.”
- Steven Gallagher, VP Sales EMEA, SOLiD
The network that is being deployed will provide seamless connectivity across all four major network providers as the UK’s first 5G neutral host network. The attention to detail built into the aesthetic design of the visible hardware components means it blends effortlessly with the innovative first direct arena without sacrificing functionality. As the neutral host solution allows for multiple mobile operators to share the same essential infrastructure, it minimises the equipment and power usage, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient means of delivering reliable mobile connectivity to customers.
The solution also facilitates next generation capabilities such as real-time interaction between the arena visitors and sponsors, providing access to exclusive content and personalised offers.
With high-speed, high-capacity comes a range of other benefits including capability for mobile, contactless payments, the ability for visitors to live stream from the venue to share experiences with friends and family as well as customer rewards and other benefits. The technology will enable the venue to also explore new technologies that can enhance the provision of feed,beverage and security services.
