Mobile telephone  mast with 5G text

Councils have to play a “vital role” in superfast broadband and 5G rollout

Ministers are calling on councils to help deliver digital connectivity ambitions across the UK.

The extent of these ambitions is 5G coverage across wider areas of the country as well as better access to fast internet with a goal to get gigabit (1000Mbps) internet in homes.

Government ministers have written to local authorities outlining how councils can play a pivotal role in boosting gigabit broadband rollout and 5G mobile coverage.

Earlier this year, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced that £5bn was being set aside to make sure gigabit internet was accessible in previously inaccessible areas, in addition to £510m investment to expand the UK’s 4G coverage to 95%.

The Government has also expressed a commitment to 5G and full fibre access across the UK backed by a £6.8bn investment.

As well as this, the Government has also published a “plain English” guide to 5G to dispel myths about the technology and reiterate its importance in the UK’s economic development.

The document explains how 5G works, how it differs from previous telecommunications technology such as 3G and 4G and where people are likely to encounter 5G masts.

The guidance comes after a series of attacks on 5G masts because of rumours that the masts were somehow responsible for the spread of coronavirus.

Minister for Digital Infrastructure Matt Warman said:

“We want to help people get access to fast and reliable connectivity. It is a top priority for this Government.

“Councils have a vital role to play in the rollout of digital infrastructure and while there is good work going on up and down the country, there is more we can do.

“Today I’m writing to local authorities with new guidance and advice to help them break down some of the barriers to rollout and give them the tools they need to quell quack theories about 5G.”

PSE October/November 2023

PSE October/November 2023

How the Midlands can be supercharged

Our October/November 2023 edition of PSE brings you expert comment and analysis on a range of key public sector topics, from EV infrastructure to Digital transformation and reducing carbon emissions.

 

Videos...

View all videos
#PSE365: Public Sector Events

Be A Part Of It!

PSE365: Public Sector Virtual Events

PSE has created a full calendar of events to address the most important issues that influence the delivery of public sector services. 

 

Over 365 days you’ll have the opportunity to hear from a range of highly motivating, informative and inspirational speakers. These speakers will equip you with knowledge and unique insight to enable you to overcome the challenges that you face.

 

See our full events calendar and register now! 

Public Sector Executive Podcast

Ep. 46
Loyalty, Covid pressures, and crucial transport connections
Tom Riordan

In 2020, most of the world stopped. People were forced to stay at home and many people were furloughed. This episode's guest, however, was thrown into the forefront of the government's response to to the Covid-19 pandemic, leading the tracing system and working alongside local and central government bodies.

Host Dan Benn is joined by Tom Riordan, Chief Executive of Leeds City Council, to discuss loyalty, the pressures of Covid-19, and the importance of transport to a city like Leeds.

More articles...

View all