Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, if she will take steps to ensure that essential mobile connectivity is built into developments at the planning stage.

In the 2025 10 Year Infrastructure Strategy, the Government committed to taking a ‘Digital First’ approach to new infrastructure projects. We recognise it is important that the future digital needs of the owners and users of infrastructure, such as roads, railways, business parks and housing developments, should be considered from the earliest stages of infrastructure planning to support growth and avoid costly retrofits.

We have also sought evidence on how the Government can support the provision of connectivity for new developments, including by encouraging earlier engagement between developers and mobile network operators, through a recent joint call for evidence on planning reform with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. We are currently reviewing responses and will determine next steps shortly.