Decision details

To consider the report of the Leader of the Council seeking to award a services concession for the use of Council-owned structures and assets to facilitate the installation and operation of infrastructure for a "limited free to user" and publicly accessible wireless network available in, but not limited to Southampton City Centre.

NOTE: Elements of this report may be considered exempt from public distribution 

(i)  To award a Wireless “limited period free to user” services concession within the City of Southampton to Arqiva for an initial 5 year period; and

(ii)  To delegate authority to the Head of Contract Management to determine whether the contract should be extended up to a further period of 5 years.

A publicly accessible wireless network in the city that is free to use for a limited period will provide economic and social benefits to residents of, and visitors to Southampton.  The evaluation panel agreed that Arqiva’s tender, the only tender submitted for the wireless services concession, meets the requirements outlined in the specification and will help meet council priorities and generate revenue.

To not recommend Arqiva be awarded a Wireless “limited period free to user” services concession.  This was rejected because Arqiva’s proposal meets the requirements set out in the specification and the proposal will help Southampton become a first class Wi-Fi and next generation enabled Wireless Network city which will help to promote social inclusion and economic development.  Rejection of the proposal would also result in the loss of a new income opportunity for the Council.