William Eichler 18 December 2023

Parking meters face disruption from 2G switch off

Parking meters face disruption from 2G switch off image
Image: Monkey Business Images / Shutterstock.com.

Parking meters, alarm systems and telecare devices risk facing disruption when 2G and 3G mobile networks are switched off, the Local Government Association (LGA) has warned.

All mobile operators will switch off 2G and 3G networks by 2033 as their services are being replaced by faster 4G and 5G technologies.

A survey by the LGA of 53 councils found that the majority are preparing for the switch off but almost two thirds said they are still using devices reliant on 2G and 3G networks to at least a small extent.

Over half (57%) of respondents said their highways, transport and parking services were still reliant on the older networks, with parking meters the main area which needs upgrading.

Environment and waste services were the second most impacted (45%), with refuse collection vehicle in-cab displays among the devices affected.

The third most impacted were housing services at just under 40% still reliant on the old networks. Telecare safety devices were also referenced in the survey as needing to be replaced.

The LGA warned that a lack of adequate 4G and 5G coverage, particularly in rural areas, will hamper efforts to move on from the legacy networks.

Cllr Mark Hawthorne, LGA digital connectivity spokesman said: ‘Councils want to do all they can to minimise the impact of the 2G and 3G network switch off but cannot do it alone. We need Government and telecoms leaders to work together to raise awareness of the transition and what it means for those at the sharp end, including on how best to manage the move to the latest technology.

‘Older, legacy infrastructure ranging from parking meters and payment machines to emergency auto diallers and sensors in social housing, may need upgrading or replacing to work on new, faster 4G and 5G networks. Time is running out if we are to avoid the fallout from the big switch off.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker - Family Support and Safeguarding - Bicester Banbury

Oxfordshire County Council
£37035 - £47754
You will manage a caseload tailored to your experience, ensuring that children’s and their families’ voices are heard, and their needs are met. You will work with families using the FSP Workbook modules, and a strengths-based approach, ensuring the As Bicester
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Executive Director of Resources & Governance (S151 Officer)

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Homes, Communities & Environment

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Strategy, People & Transformation

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council
Linkedin Banner