Dorset unveils street-by-street mobile signal checker powered by bin lorries
New technology that’s been fitted onto bin trucks will allow people across Dorset to check signal strength on their street
Dorset residents can now check which mobile provider offers the best signal at their address
Dorset Council has teamed up with tech firm Streetwave to install mobile signal measuring equipment on its 32-strong fleet of bin lorries.
As they travelled 2,400 miles across the county, the vehicles gathered accurate data on mobile signal strength from the UK’s four main network providers: EE, Vodafone, Three and O2.
The result is a comprehensive, street-level online tool showing actual signal quality - from “excellent” to “poor” - as well as upload and download speeds for each provider.
Cllr Richard Biggs said: “We have known for many years that the mobile coverage data provided by Ofcom does not give an accurate picture for Dorset.
“This checker will empower people and help us press for improvements in areas that are clearly struggling.”
Ofcom’s estimates claim 90% of Dorset has good coverage from all four providers. However, the Streetwave data suggests the true figure is under 50%.
Soon, the Streetwave equipment will also be used to check the connectivity of the council’s green spaces to provide even more coverage data for Dorset.
Cllr Briggs added: “Digital is so important in today’s world and it’s essential that businesses and residents have access to the best possible connectivity.
“The Streetwave data has huge potential to help public services carry out frontline duties more efficiently and safely.
“Crucially, it will help us lobby the government and suppliers for better coverage in areas we know are currently struggling.”