Client Background
Sandwell Council sought to modernise the digital infrastructure at its Sandwell Start-Up Hub, a key facility supporting council staff, local businesses, and the wider community. Rather than a routine technology refresh, the council wanted a future-ready solution that would enable reliable connectivity, support growth, and reflect its commitment to digital innovation. DTE was selected for its proven expertise in designing and delivering secure, enterprise-grade network solutions within public sector environments.
The Challenge
The Sandwell Start-Up Hub is a high-traffic, public-facing environment with significant demands on connectivity and security. The existing network infrastructure struggled to support daily operations, creating performance and governance challenges for the council.
Key challenges included:
Supporting High User Demand
The network needed to accommodate over 200 concurrent users, including staff, start-ups, and members of the public.
Overcoming Poor Wi-Fi Performance
Inconsistent wireless coverage and slow speeds negatively impacted productivity and user experience.
Improving Internet and Site-to-Site Connectivity
Limited bandwidth and unreliable connections to council headquarters restricted access to critical systems.
Balancing Public Access With Security
A controlled Wi-Fi environment was required to manage different user types without compromising usability.
Protecting Reputation and Compliance
Robust web content filtering was essential to prevent misuse and ensure safe, compliant internet access.
Preparing For Future Growth
The solution needed to be scalable to support increasing demand and future digital initiatives.
The Solution
DTE designed and delivered a modern, secure, and scalable network tailored to the operational needs of Sandwell Council. The solution combined high-performance connectivity with strong governance and minimal disruption during deployment.DTE designed and delivered a modern, secure, and scalable network tailored to the operational needs of Sandwell Council. The solution combined high-performance connectivity with strong governance and minimal disruption during deployment.
The solution delivered:
Insight-Led Network Design
Detailed cabling and wireless surveys ensured the infrastructure was aligned with real-world usage and performance requirements.
High-Capacity Internet Connectivity
A new 1Gb fibre connection provided the bandwidth required to support high user volumes and cloud-based services.
Next Generation Wireless Performance
Enterprise-grade Wi-Fi 6E access points delivered fast, reliable connectivity throughout the hub.
Resilient Core Network Infrastructure
New switches, routers, and firewalls created a stable, secure, and high-performance network backbone.
Secure and Controlled User Access
Segmented access policies and advanced web content filtering safeguarded users and protected the council’s digital environment.
Seamless Deployment With Minimal Disruption
Pre-configured equipment and careful planning ensured a smooth installation without impacting day-to-day operations.
The Result
The completed project has transformed the Sandwell Start-Up Hub into a digitally enabled, future-ready environment. The new network supports productivity, collaboration, and secure public access while providing long-term value for the council.
Key results achieved:
Reliable Connectivity For All Users
Staff, businesses, and visitors now benefit from consistent, high-speed Wi-Fi across the site.
Improved Productivity and User Experience
Enhanced performance has removed connectivity frustrations and enabled more effective working.
Secure and Compliant Internet Access
Controlled usage and content filtering ensure safe, policy-compliant connectivity in a public space.
Increased Network Resilience
Modern infrastructure reduces downtime and supports uninterrupted service delivery.
A Platform For Future Growth
The scalable design allows the network to expand as demand and digital services evolve.
Ongoing Performance Assurance
Proactive monitoring, quarterly reviews, and rapid incident response ensure continued reliability and peace of mind.
Written by Mitchell Rutherford
Technical Director
Mitchell Rutherford is Technical Director at DTE, overseeing the design, installation, and supply of wireless solutions. With extensive expertise in wireless technologies and project delivery, Mitchell ensures that DTE’s wireless projects are executed efficiently, reliably, and to the highest technical standards.
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