Ambition North Wales 4G+ Public Sector Asset Improvement Grant Scheme - EOI
The 4G+ Public Sector Asset Improvement Grant Scheme helps public sector organisations upgrade or replace existing assets so they can support 4G and 5G mobile infrastructure. This can include improving lighting columns, power supplies, access, structures, or fibre and ducting. Once upgraded, assets must be made available to mobile operators on a non‑exclusive, open access basis. Grants may fund up to 100% of eligible capital costs. However, grant payments are made in arrears. Applicants must therefore be able to cashflow project delivery and provide evidence of financial capacity to do so.
- Opening date:
- Closing date: (Midnight)
Contents
Summary
The 4G+ Public Sector Asset Improvement Grant Scheme provides targeted capital grants to public sector organisations to upgrade or replace existing assets so that 4G+ (4G, 5G non-standalone and 5G standalone) technology can be deployed on them. Eligible works may include (but are not limited to) replacing outdated lighting columns, installing or upgrading power supplies, installing fibre backhaul or ducting, improving access to structures, or reinforcing structures to accommodate telecommunications equipment.
Once upgraded, assets supported by this Scheme must be made available to commercial operators through non-exclusive Open Access Agreements (or equivalent non-discriminatory access arrangements). This Scheme complements the 4G+ Industry Grant Scheme detailed below by enabling the “host” infrastructure needed for deployment and by reducing barriers associated with asset suitability, power and backhaul availability.
The 4G+ Industry Grant scheme is designed to provide targeted subsidies to Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), neutral hosts and infrastructure providers for the deployment and upgrading of 4G and 5G mobile infrastructure in underserved Total Not Spot (TNS) and Partial Not Spot (PNS) locations in North Wales.
The 4G+ Public Sector Asset Improvement Scheme applicants are encouraged to engage with the mobile network industry to coordinate activities at sites where investment could be available through both schemes.
Eligibility
This scheme is open to public sector organisations that own, operate or manage eligible assets in North Wales and can enter into a Grant Funding Agreement with Ambition North Wales.
Eligible applicants include (but are not limited to) local authorities, national park authorities, health bodies, emergency services, further and higher education institutions, and other public sector bodies.
Projects must be located within North Wales (Gwynedd, Isle of Anglesey, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire or Wrexham). Limited out-of-region expenditure may be eligible where it is essential to delivering the project’s regional objectives.
Applications are assessed on readiness, deliverability, impact, open access obligations, and value for money. Projects must show operator commitment; eligible capital spend and compliance with all scheme requirements.
The Scheme is designed to enable new projects that cannot be undertaken without grant support.
Projects must be deliverable within the agreed timescales (by January 2030) and demonstrate value for money, sustainability, and compliance with subsidy control and equality requirements.
*Further information can be found in Grant Scheme Guidance
Objectives
To upgrade or replace public sector assets so they are ready to host 4G and 5G mobile equipment.
To remove practical barriers to mobile deployment, such as limited power supply, poor structural capacity, lack of fibre backhaul, or restricted access.
To enable faster and more cost‑effective rollout of mobile infrastructure by providing suitable “host” assets.
To ensure upgraded assets are made available to mobile operators on a non‑exclusive, open and fair access basis.
To support improved mobile coverage and capacity, particularly in underserved areas of North Wales.
To complement the 4G+ Industry Grant Scheme by enabling coordinated public and private investment at the same sites.
To help bridge the commercial viability gap that prevents mobile operators from investing in challenging or low‑return locations.
Dates
Expressions of interest can be submitted at any time, on a rolling basis. Submitting an EOI or application does not automatically entitle an applicant to receive a grant.
The Scheme operates on a rolling basis and will be prioritised according to strategic need, readiness, enabling impact and available budget. Project completion by January 2030.
How to apply
How to apply
The application process involves two stages both through the Find a Grant Portal:
Expression of Interest (EOI)
Where applicants outline the project plan, benefits and readiness to move into delivery.
Full Application
Where invited applicants will submit quotes, evidence and cost detail and timelines.
If invited to full Application, organisations will be expected to follow Ambition North Wales Procurement Principles