Pressing for Faster Progress on West Berkshire’s Signal Not-Spots

I recently met with VodafoneThree to seek updates on 5G connectivity across the constituency and the wider barriers that continue to slow down upgrades to the UK’s mobile network.  

From transport to banking and digital infrastructure, rural communities cannot be pushed to the back of the queue. One key area I raised directly with VodafoneThree was Lambourn, where residents continue to tell me that mobile connectivity remains patchy and unreliable.  

While mobile coverage maps can paint a reassuring picture, on the ground, it can be very different. Residents describe calls dropping out, texts not sending, or needing to walk outside and hold their phone up in the air in the hope that even one or two signal bars might appear. 

This is not just an inconvenience, but something that is vital for local businesses and safety. Signal not-spots can leave households unable to contact emergency services, access vital healthcare information, or mean farmers’ digital tools fail out in the field. This is not the sign of a modern economy, and during the meeting VodafoneThree agreed to take these concerns back to their team to understand why some nearby areas are seeing upgrades sooner. 

We also discussed the wider planning barriers facing telecoms providers. Too frequently, routine upgrades to existing masts and infrastructure are delayed by slow and inconsistent planning processes. Earlier this year, when I met with Mobile UK, the trade body representing major operators, I heard similar frustrations, with concerns that the system is too cumbersome even for straightforward upgrades. 

Alongside adding my name to an Early Day Motion that calls for rapid action to improve mobile connectivity in rural areas, I will also be tabling multiple written questions to Ministers on reforms to planning rules, permitted development rights, and whether digital connectivity will finally be treated as essential national infrastructure.  

A third key topic was the ongoing Vodafone franchisee court case. As I have said previously, this remains a live legal matter, and Vodafone reiterated that they are keen to reach a settlement and engage constructively with affected franchisees. The accusations raised by former franchisees are deeply concerning and the collapse of businesses has been devastating to them and their families. I will continue monitoring developments carefully and support constituents who have been in contact with me.  

Good connectivity should be consistent across West Berkshire; I will keep pressing both industry and the Government to fill persistent coverage blackspots and ensure communities across West Berkshire are properly connected.