A series of new initiatives have now been launched to improve mobile connectivity across North Wales, helping to tackle areas with poor 4G coverage, increase capacity and support more reliable mobile services.
The 4G+ Project, led by Ambition North Wales, will address gaps in mobile coverage and network capacity, with a particular focus on key commercial sites, strategic transport corridors and locations where poor connectivity limits growth. Working with public sector organisations, telecommunications providers, infrastructure owners and other partners, the project aims to accelerate investment in mobile infrastructure while laying the foundations for future 5G services.
Stuart Whitfield, Digital Connectivity Programme Manager, Ambition North Wales, said:
"Reliable mobile connectivity is essential to how people live, work and do business. While some parts of North Wales are well served, there are still many areas where poor coverage and network performance is holding back businesses, communities and public services."
"The 4G+ Project is about bringing key partners together to tackle those challenges, making better use of existing infrastructure and creating the conditions for future investment. By working collaboratively, we can improve mobile connectivity and help ensure the region is equipped with the networks needed to support sustained economic growth."
Key elements of the 4G+ Project include supporting a Regional Digital Connectivity Forum which meets quarterly; developing Open Access Agreements; a Public Sector Asset Improvement Grant Scheme; and an Industry Grant Scheme. This set of interventions addresses specific challenges associated with developing telecommunications networks.
Stuart Whitfield, Digital Connectivity Programme Manager, Ambition North Wales, said:
“Ambition North Wales recognises how critical mobile connectivity is now and will continue to be in the future as consumer demand and technology continue to develop. The 4G+ Project is establishing the region’s position as somewhere which can attract industry investment and facilitate partnership working between the public and private sectors necessary to achieve long term benefits."