Laura Sharman 10 July 2017

Councils call for control of fines levied on mobile operators

Councils have called for control over the fines given to mobile operators for poor coverage and customer service to boost connectivity.

The Local Government Association (LGA) said Ofcom has fined operators millions of pounds over the past three years due to breaches of its rules.

It said this money should be handed over to local areas to help communities access digital infrastructure.

Under government proposals, councils will be required to draft new planning policies setting out how they will deliver high quality digital infrastructure in their areas.

The LGA said extra funding would enable councils to trial new ways of working.

Cllr Mark Hawthorne, chairman of the LGA’s People and Places Board, said: ‘If a new duty is imposed on planning authorities to set out how they will help deliver digital infrastructure it must be accompanied by funding to pilot new local models for facilitating the deployment of these networks.

‘Rather than fines levied on mobile operators going straight to the Treasury, it would be far better for councils to be able to use the money to boost local efforts to ensure everyone has access to fast and reliable digital connectivity.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Social Worker

North Yorkshire Council
£38,220 - £42,839 per annum, pro rata
In our Family Assessment and Support Team, you will work with a range of children and their families, carers and networks. Richmond, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Relief Children's Residential Edge of Care Worker

North Yorkshire Council
£16.35 - £17.85
Here in North Yorkshire, we have several services that support and empower children. Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Chief Executive

Leicestershire County Council
Up to £234,171
This is a rare opportunity to lead a council with both strength and ambition at a time of change. Leicestershire
Recuriter: Leicestershire County Council

Director of Adults and Integrated Commissioning

Kent County Council
up to £129,530 per annum
A career-defining role at the heart of adult social care transformation. Kent
Recuriter: Kent County Council

Part Time Finance Administrator

Essex County Council
Up to £25081.00 per annum + Pro Rata
Part Time Finance AdministratorPermanent, Part Time£25,081 per annum, full time equivalentLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council
Linkedin Banner