Waverley Borough Council has reaffirmed its commitment to improving mobile connectivity across the borough following a recent meeting with representatives from VodafoneThree. The meeting focused on the progress of proposals to expand the 5G network and address longstanding coverage gaps that have affected residents and businesses, particularly in rural areas.
The Council welcomed updates from the company on their ambitious plans to invest in digital infrastructure across the UK, including Waverley. A spokesperson for VodafoneThree said: “It was great to catch up with Waverley Borough Council to discuss VodafoneThree’s exciting investment plans for the borough. Our £11 billion investment across the UK will deliver tangible connectivity benefits to residents across Waverley.”
This engagement is part of Waverley’s broader strategy to ensure that digital connectivity remains a priority. It is a key strand of the Council’s Economic Development Strategy, which aims to support local businesses, attract investment, and ensure residents can access essential services.
Councillor Liz Townsend, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economic Development, commented:
“We are continuing to press mobile network providers to deliver the improvements our communities need. Despite previous promises, many rural areas in Waverley still suffer from poor or non-existent mobile coverage. We are determined to keep the pressure on and ensure that our residents and businesses are not left behind in the digital age.”
Earlier in the year, the Council wrote to the Minister of State for Data and Digital Infrastructure, calling for greater government support to accelerate improvements and hold providers accountable. This followed growing frustration among residents who face daily challenges due to unreliable mobile service, including difficulties accessing emergency services, online banking, and digital transport information.
Cllr Townsend continued: “Waverley Borough Council will continue to work closely with providers and government partners to ensure that digital infrastructure keeps pace with the needs of its growing communities.”
Image: Cranleigh - photo credit: Matt Gordon