West of England Mayor, Tim Bowles and Mobile UK, the trade body for the UK’s mobile network operators (MNOs), have expressed their commitment to work in collaboration to extend and enhance mobile coverage in the West of England.

The announcement comes following a meeting between the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) and MNOs in Bristol on 12th December.

In the coming months, WECA will be developing a digital strategy for the region with high quality, effective digital infrastructure as a central component. WECA will work with Mobile UK to ensure the West of England is well equipped to enjoy the benefits of new technology advances and take full advantage of mobile connectivity’s contribution to business productivity and economic growth.

The announcement is the latest development in Mobile UK’s Building Mobile Britain campaign, which has seen the organisation engage with national and local decision-makers, as well as interested industry groups, in a bid to overcome the challenges MNOs face with expanding the existing mobile networks.

Tim Bowles, West of England Mayor said:

“One of the top priorities for the West of England region is to build on our strengths as a leader in innovation, high tech and creativity. Many successful businesses and high value jobs are based here but connectivity remains a challenge in some parts of our region.

“Creating the right environment for digital infrastructure investment will be central to ensuring that the West of England stays at the forefront of digital developments.  We need to ensure that businesses are able to harness the benefits of innovation and that they can continue to compete nationally and internationally. We look forward to working with Mobile UK on this effort.”

Hamish MacLeod, Director at Mobile UK said:

“We are delighted to support the Mayor and West of England Combined Authority and look forward to working with them to identify and overcome the challenges to effective mobile deployment.

“Mobile connectivity is essential in today’s digital world and the mobile network operators are committed to expanding mobile coverage across the UK, enhancing the connectivity that businesses and consumers in the West of England require.”

About Building Mobile Britain

Building Mobile Britain is a campaign created by Mobile UK seeking to work with national and local government, as well as interested industry groups to overcome the challenges we face with expanding the existing mobile networks, while also developing innovative services for customers.

For further information – www.buildingmobilebritain.org.uk or #BuildingMobileBritain