Residents and businesses across Somerset can now check the strength of mobile phone coverage in their area using a new postcode checker powered by real-world data collected across the county. Somerset Council has worked with mobile mapping specialist Streetwave to survey coverage from the UK’s four main mobile network operators by using equipment installed on our recycling collection vehicles.
Lead Member for Economic Development Planning and Assets, Cllr Mike Rigby said:
Reliable mobile connections are essential for people living and working across Somerset.
This project gives us a much clearer picture of the mobile phone signal people are experiencing, helping residents and businesses make more informed choices about the services available to them.
Having access to accurate, real-world data is important in helping us identify where improvements are needed ensuring rural areas have the connectivity they need to thrive in Somerset.
As the recycling trucks travelled their normal routes, the technology measured mobile phone signal performance and collected millions of data points, creating one of the most detailed pictures yet of mobile connectivity across Somerset. The data, which is now available through a new online postcode checker, allows residents and businesses to compare coverage in their area and make more informed decisions about mobile providers.
The project was commissioned to provide a more accurate understanding of mobile coverage across Somerset.
While Ofcom publishes mobile coverage information based on data supplied by mobile network operators, the Streetwave survey collected real-world measurements from roads and communities across the county.
The findings will help Somerset Council build a clearer picture of where connectivity is performing well and where further improvements may be needed. The survey data will also provide valuable evidence to support discussions with mobile network operators and government about future improvements to digital connectivity across Somerset.
Residents and businesses are now able to access the postcode checker via the Somerset Council website: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/business-economy-and-licences/check-mobile-phone-coverage-in-somerset/
