What discussions has the Welsh Government had with mobile network operators about the barriers they face when upgrading existing sites or deploying mobile infrastructure on rooftops?
Officials meet regularly with mobile network operators and their representative body Mobile UK to discuss a range of issues, including those around the barriers mobile network operators face when upgrading existing sites and deploying mobile infrastructure on rooftops. Planning policy on telecommunications is set out in Future Wales and Planning Policy Wales. The Welsh Government has previously supported the deployment of fast modern telecoms infrastructure and put in place planning policy and Permitted Development Rights (PDRs) to help achieve this. Officials have asked the mobile industry, through the industry group Mobile UK, for evidence to underpin the case for further changes to planning legislation in respect of Permitted Development Rights and are awaiting responses.
Telecommunications is not a devolved matter and responsibility for improving mobile phone connectivity in Wales rests with the UK Government. We aim to create the right conditions for telecoms industry investment in mobile phone connectivity with the levers at our disposal and continue to make the case for ongoing investment in digital infrastructure throughout Wales. This includes encouraging private sector operators to expand their own networks.