Europe UK : Arqiva has secured contracts valued at over GBP100,000 with three mobile network operators to extend 3G coverage across the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey. Following the release of additional 2G/3G licences by local regulators, Arqiva will upgrade six of its existing sites across the three regions to bring mobile phone users a raft of additional multimedia features and functionality. The network extension will benefit customers of Guernsey Airtel, Jersey Airtel and Cloud9 amongst others.

Arqiva's multi-operator, site-sharing solution will enable mobile operators to offer additional services over existing infrastructure. This way the operators can also overcome the challenges of limited space and stay within the restrictions and conditions set by local regulators. Additional features, that customers will be able to enjoy from 3G coverage, will depend on the services offered by each operator but in general will include high-speed internet access, together with entertainment, information and e-commerce services.

Isle of Man's new 3G licences will introduce two new mobile operators to the island - one of which is Cloud9, offspring of Wire9 Group. Cloud9 has been specifically set up to provide mobile telecommunications. Wire9 already operates a fixed-line service on the Isle of Man. Arqiva is expecting the new services to be ready in time for the TT 100 races which begin on 26 May. The launch of new 3G services will ensure that race goers will have an enhanced mobile experience from more than one operator for the first time. Manx Telecom, part of O2, already operates a 3G service on the Island.

Guernsey's additional 3G services will be rolled out in 2007. Operated by Guernsey Airtel, the introduction of an additional 3G operator will impact 60,000 people on The Bailiwick of Guernsey. On Jerseythree operators, including Jersey Airtel and Colt, won 3G licences in last year's auction, one of which has already gone live on the island. Jersey Airtel expects to go live imminently, thereby providing Jersey Telecom with competition for the first time.

Phil Collins, head of SiteShare in Arqiva's Wireless Solutions division, said: "We're proud to be able to play such an important role in bringing enhanced mobile services to customers on the Isle of Man, Jersey & Guernsey. These contracts have been a challenge due to the very short turn-around time. But, by using our existing infrastructure, our customers can enhance these networks quickly and with minimal disruption. This also goes a long way to keeping their costs down as they are able to extend the use of these shared facilities."

About Arqiva

Arqiva operates at the heart of the broadcast and mobile communications industry and is at the forefront of network solutions and services in an increasingly digital world. The company provides much of the infrastructure behind television, radio and wireless communications in the UKand has a growing presence in Ireland, mainland Europe and the USA.

For broadcasters, media companies and corporate enterprises Arqiva has end-to-end capability ranging from outside broadcasts, satellite newsgathering, studios, playout, satellite distribution and terrestrial transmission, the latter including digital switch over and mobile TV development.

In the communications sector the company supports cellular, wireless broadband, video, voice and data solutions for the mobile phone, public safety, public sector, public space and transport markets.

Arqiva has its headquarters in Hampshire, with other major UKoffices in London, Buckinghamshire and Yorkshire. It now has seven international satellite teleports, 60 manned bases, and over 2300 shared radio sites throughout the UK and Ireland including masts, towers and rooftops from under 30 to over 300 metres tall.

The company is owned by a consortium of investors led by Macquarie Communications Infrastructure Group and has five operating divisions: Terrestrial Media Solutions, Satellite Media Solutions, Mobile Media Solutions, Wireless Solutions and Public Safety.

Major customers include ITV, Channel 4, Five, the BBC, BSkyB, Classic FM, the five UKmobile operators, the RNLI and the Metropolitan Police.