Council in talks to improve poor mobile coverage

Tackling longstanding dead spots, particularly in rural areas, is an issue

Waverley Borough Council (WBC) has announced it is in talks to improve poor mobile coverage across the borough.

The Surrey authority has been having discussions with a major mobile network provider about expanding the 5G network and tackling longstanding dead spots, particularly in rural areas.

Earlier in the year, WBC wrote to the minister of state for Data and Digital Infrastructure asking for more support to upgrade services.

Councillor Liz Townsend, portfolio holder for planning and economic development, said: "Many rural areas in Waverley still suffer from poor or non-existent mobile coverage and we are determined to ensure they are not left behind in the digital age."

She added that WBC was "continuing to press mobile network providers to deliver the improvements our communities need".

Among these is VodafoneThree, with whom the council recently met regarding "their ambitious plans to invest in digital infrastructure across the UK, including Waverley".

A WBC spokesperson said: "Digital connectivity remains a priority and is a key strand of its Economic Development Strategy, which aims to support local businesses, attract investment and ensure residents can access essential services.

"It follows growing frustration among residents who face daily challenges due to unreliable mobile service, including difficulties accessing emergency services, online banking, and digital transport information."

In a previous interview with BBC Radio Surrey, Townsend described poor mobile coverage in Waverley as "a constant issue".

"It's the fourth utility now and people need to be able to use it for, say, paying for their parking in the local car parks," she said.

"You often see people wandering around searching for a mobile signal."

The government has said it is working with Ofcom to "have a greater understanding" of people's experiences using mobile networks.