A NEW scheme has been launched by Worcestershire Council to improve mobile connectivity across the county.
Poor signal strength in certain areas impacts both residents and local businesses.
To address these connectivity challenges, the county council is implementing a comprehensive study to gather detailed information on street-level connectivity and work towards improving service quality.
From next month, the authority – with the support of district and borough council partners – will begin temporarily equipping waste collection lorries with advanced technology to monitor and collect data on mobile connectivity throughout the county.
This innovative approach will provide valuable insights into connectivity issues in real time. Additionally, a new feature coming soon on the county council’s Report It web app, will allow residents and businesses to easily log areas where mobile connectivity is inadequate.
Coun Adam Kent, Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member for economy and skills, said: “We know issues with mobile connectivity have a huge impact on businesses, people and communities.
“I hear from many people, both in my own division of Wythall and around the county, that the mobile signal is certain areas is worse than it was 12 months ago.
“It’s a priority of mine, and the council, to do what we can to improve this.
“The first step is getting a better understanding of where the issues are and with the data collection from the bins lorries, this will help.”
He added that – coupled with people reporting poor mobile signal – would enable the council to work with providers to improve the connectivity.
This work will offer a clearer picture of mobile connectivity throughout Worcestershire to support more informed choices when selecting mobile service providers as residents and businesses will also benefit from a detailed coverage map, which will be made available to them.
The county council will collaborate closely with mobile providers to address and resolve identified connectivity issues.
Worcestershire County Council says it is committed to tackling the quality of mobile connectivity across the county, ensuring that both residents and businesses can enjoy reliable and high-quality mobile services.
