BT Group has signed a significant new contract worth £1.29 billion with the UK’s Home Office, ensuring the continued development and management of the Emergency Services Network (ESN) for the next seven years. The deal, which takes effect on December 2, 2024, will see BT provide critical mobile services for the nationwide communications network used by first responders across the UK.
The new agreement comes as the existing contract between the Home Office and BT is set to expire at the end of 2024. Under the terms of this fresh contract, BT will be tasked with enhancing the mobile coverage and capabilities of the ESN, which supports more than 300,000 users, including police, ambulance, and fire services. As part of the deal, BT will oversee the network’s expansion by providing communications services via EE’s Radio Access Network (RAN), ensuring improved nationwide coverage for emergency responders.
In addition to traditional mobile services, BT’s role will also include management responsibilities for the Home Office’s Air-to-Ground network, coverage in key areas like the London Underground, as well as specific road and rail tunnels. A key part of the expanded ESN programme will involve BT’s commitment to providing the largest indoor coverage solution rollout in the UK to date. This is crucial for meeting the operational standards required by Public Safety Communications Services, which are essential for emergency response teams.
The new contract reflects a shift towards more robust and reliable communications infrastructure for the UK’s emergency services, with a focus on improving connectivity even in challenging locations like tunnels and remote areas. The agreement runs through until 2032, with the option for a one-year extension.
This development is a continuation of BT’s long-standing involvement in the ESN programme, which has faced significant delays and budget overruns since its inception. Initially, the ESN was intended to replace the ageing Airwave system, with the project set to be completed by 2020. However, complications led to delays and cost overruns, with completion now expected in 2023. Notably, Motorola, a key partner in the initiative, withdrew from the project in 2022.
Despite these setbacks, BT’s CEO of Business, Bas Burger, emphasized the company’s renewed commitment to supporting the Home Office in delivering and operating this critical network. The partnership underscores BT’s pivotal role in ensuring that the UK’s emergency services are equipped with reliable, state-of-the-art communications technology.
As the UK continues to modernize its emergency response systems, this contract represents a vital step in securing advanced, resilient communication networks for first responders across the nation.
