5G Network Masts

Mobile phone operators say major reforms to Britain’s planning system is needed in order for them to erect 500,000 masts to launch 5G network.

18:54 08 August 2017

The bosses of Three, EE and O2 are calling for major reforms to Britain’s planning system in order for them to increase the number of transmitters across the country so 5G mobile network would be in place by 2020.

 

The technology, which is expected to play a crucial role in connecting billions of devices in the coming decades, will offer dramatically faster speeds than existing 3G and 4G networks.

 

But the frequency used by 5G requires more signal masts and mobile companies insist planning applications take too long and could make installing them an impossible task.

 

Three chief executive Dave Dyson said: 'It is a significant step change from where we are today ... the industry in the UK is at risk of lagging behind.' Mark Evans, boss of Telefonica UK, which trades as O2, added: 'It's essential our investment in digital infrastructure is not thwarted by analogue planning practices.'

 

Martin Tett, the Local Government Association's environment spokesman, said yesterday: 'Planning controls exist to give people the power over developments that impact on their quality of life, and they should be respected.'