Assington Green, Bildeston and Boxford have been identified as non-spots which could be in line for new masts as part of a scheme to reach the most remote 0.4% of the country.
In the past we have highlighted the huge impact that so-called not-spots – where people are unable to pick up a mobile phone signal – have on our rural economy through the Let’s Get Connected Campaign.
The plans for the three villages emerged in response to a parliamentary question by South Suffolk MP James Cartlidge.
The Government said it is set to apply for planning permission in Boxford shortly and it is in the process of purchasing and securing planning permission for masts in Assington Green and Bidleston.
Mr Cartlidge said: “I am delighted to have confirmation from ministers that these villages now have real hope of better mobile phone signal. I know from my own experience on the school run that Boxford has very poor signal with significant areas of nil coverage. Equally, voters in Bildeston specifically lobbied me on this point, and I know that the villages around Assington Green are not well served. Of course, new masts must be appropriately sited and we will need to ensure this process goes from consideration to delivery. However, it is fantastic that so early in the parliament we can see progress being made on better mobile coverage in south Suffolk.”
Robert Lindsay, who lives in Bildeston and is a former parish councillor, said his instant reaction was that it was “great news”.
“We are in a not-spot. Mobile coverage is appalling here. If this is going to help us improve the coverage it is fantastic. It means it is easier for people to work from home, which is a greener way of working.”
He said there had been a planning application when he was on the parish council, which had not been objected to because people in the village were so desperate for the mobile phone coverage to improve.
David Lamming, who lives in Boxford, said: “I suspect there will be a lot of people in Boxford who will be pleased to have a mast anywhere.
“My own personal view is that if we have a mast that fits in the landscape it will be welcome.”
Published by East Anglian Daily Press.