Mobile UK has warmly welcomed the announcement by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins MLA launching a public consultation on proposals to reform permitted development rights (PDR) for telecommunications in Northern Ireland.

Minister Kimmins’ decision to propose reforms to these regulations marks a significant and timely step forward. Historically, mobile deployment in Northern Ireland has faced challenges under a planning framework that has not kept up with other parts of the UK and technological progress. Reforming PDR is a much-needed measure to remove unnecessary planning barriers and ensure communities, businesses, and public services across Northern Ireland can benefit from high-speed, reliable 4G and 5G connectivity.

Mobile UK has consistently called for these vital planning reforms and strongly supports the collaborative ambitions set out in the Mobile Action Plan for Northern Ireland. Minister Kimmins’ decisive action reflects a shared commitment between government and industry to establish a planning regime capable of mobilising network deployment, driving innovation, and unlocking sustained infrastructure investment.

Streamlining planning procedures for upgrading existing infrastructure and building new sites is essential to mobilising deployment at pace. These reforms will empower mobile operators to expand coverage and boost network capacity where it is needed most, particularly in rural and historically underserved communities.

Mobile UK looks forward to working closely with the Department for Infrastructure throughout this process and confirms it will submit a robust, comprehensive response to the consultation.

The public consultation and supporting documents can be viewed directly on the Department for Infrastructure website: Review of Permitted Development Rights for Mobile Telecommunications.

For further information on Mobile UK's campaign to mobilise deployment, investment and innovation click here.