Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Planning process and site-by-site analysis now identifying specific benefits of individual mast locations.
Recommendation
BDUK added that subsequent decisions about where masts should be located is allowing for greater specificity in identifying the programme’s benefits. For example, when seeking planning permission, DMSL must submit business plans for each cluster of masts and these should demonstrate what the individual and specific benefits for those locations will be. BDUK therefore expects the planning process to be a really important part of testing the benefits of those sites.26 In addition, over the couple of months to June this year, DMSL is conducting a site-by-site analysis of each proposed Total Not Spot site in terms of the coverage it delivers and its value for money. As part of this, DMSL is also meeting with community interest groups to discuss their concerns.27 The 5% of the UK landmass that will not have 4G connectivity
Government Response
A response document is linked to this report, dated 11 July 2025. Response attribution to this conclusion has not been verified. Read the response document ↗