VodafoneThree has welcomed changes to the UK’s National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), saying they should make it easier to build and upgrade the infrastructure needed to expand mobile connectivity.
The updated framework strengthens planning policy around telecommunications, including giving greater weight to projects that improve network coverage, capacity and reliability.
In a LinkedIn post, VodafoneThree Chief Regulatory and Government Affairs Officer, Stephen Lerner, said the telecoms giant had been pushing for these changes for some time.
“VodafoneThree has been making a clear and consistent case to government that our planning system should better recognise digital connectivity as critical infrastructure,” he said.
The new framework also highlights the role of standalone 5G (5GSA), with an ambition to deliver higher-quality 5GSA coverage across all populated areas by 2030.
It also makes clear that planning authorities should not question the need to expand or upgrade telecoms networks, while also taking account of operational requirements, consumer demand and future network capacity.
For VodafoneThree, the changes could help support its planned £11 billion investment in rolling out high-speed, high-capacity 5GSA to 99.96% of the UK population, Lerner noted.
Additionally, the telecoms operator sees the benefits of the investment extending beyond faster mobile connections. Lerner said a wider 5GSA rollout could help businesses, public services and the broader economy.
He said: “The dividend of accelerated network delivery will extend far beyond faster mobile services. A nationwide 5GSA network will support business productivity, innovation, better public services and more inclusive economic growth.”
He added: “I am pleased that the Government has listened to the case made by VodafoneThree and the wider mobile industry. The new NPPF provides a much stronger foundation for delivering the digital infrastructure the country needs.
“We now look forward to continuing our engagement with the Government on wider planning reform, including modernising permitted development rights so that essential network upgrades can be delivered more quickly and efficiently while maintaining appropriate safeguards.”
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