.png)
Jess Brown-Fuller MP presses mobile providers for increased investment in Chichester city centre following connectivity survey results
Jess Brown-Fuller MP has written to all major mobile network providers to share the results of her recent survey on connectivity in Chichester city centre, which received more than 800 responses from local residents and businesses.
The survey forms part of Jess' ongoing campaign to improve mobile connectivity across the constituency, gathering first-hand evidence of the challenges poor signal is causing for those who live, work and visit the city.
The results revealed widespread frustration with the quality of mobile coverage in Chichester city centre. Nearly 70% of respondents rated their mobile signal as "Very Poor", whilst 85% said they experienced poor signal every time they visited the city centre.
The impact on everyday activities was also stark, with more than three-quarters of respondents reporting being unable to send messages, access online banking and other essential services, or make and receive phone calls due to poor connectivity.
In her letter to mobile providers, Jess welcomed the progress already being made through the Chichester OpenDigital project, which will deliver the infrastructure needed to support stronger and more reliable mobile coverage across the city centre. The improvements are expected to focus on key areas including North Street, South Street, East Street and West Street.
However, Jess stressed that improved infrastructure must be matched by investment from network operators if residents and businesses are to see meaningful improvements. She urged providers to take the survey findings into account when planning future network upgrades, and requested updates on their plans to improve connectivity.
Jess said:
"The response to this survey demonstrates just how widespread and persistent these connectivity problems are. In an age where people increasingly rely on their mobile phones to stay connected, access services, run businesses and keep safe, poor signal simply isn't acceptable."
"I welcome the investment being made through the OpenDigital project, and mobile network providers must now play their part. I have written to them to ensure they are aware of residents' experiences and to press for the improvements that Chichester needs."
