Decision

RESOLVED:

1. This Council notes that:

a)            Reliable mobile coverage is important for keeping in touch, accessing services, running businesses and contacting emergency services.

b)            Some residents experience weak or unreliable signals, even where published coverage maps suggest a good service.

c)             The Council has already considered digital connectivity through the MK City Plan 2050 and supports new digital infrastructure through its planning policies.

d)            Mobile coverage is provided by network operators, but the Council can raise evidence of local problems with operators and Ofcom.

1. This Council believes that:

a)            Mobile connectivity must keep pace as Milton Keynes grows.

b)            Any future work should build on the evidence already collected and focus on the problems residents and businesses experience.

1. This Council resolves to ask the Executive to:

a)            Consider whether a review of residents’ and businesses’ experiences of mobile coverage can be brought forward during the 2027/28 Council year, subject to available resources.

b)            Raise any significant gaps identified through existing or future evidence with mobile operators and Ofcom and report any resulting action at the most appropriate time to the relevant scrutiny council committee.