Methods and apparatus for allocating scrambling codes to cells of a wireless network. In an example method, current scrambling code allocation information for a plurality of cells and network configuration information for a radio access network are received. A reallocation of scrambling codes to the plurality of cells is computed, based on the current scrambling code allocation information and the network configuration information, using a metaheuristic algorithm. A change in scrambling code for at least one of the plurality of cells is then triggered, based on the computed reallocation. In some embodiments, the metaheuristic algorithm is based on an objective function that comprises a summation of interference metrics for each of the plurality of cells, wherein the interference metrics depend on scrambling code allocations to the plurality of cells. In some embodiments, a simulated annealing metaheuristic is used.