Major mobile signal upgrade planned for Chichester city centre

Chichester city centre is set for a major mobile connectivity upgrade as councils begin work on new infrastructure designed to tackle weak and unreliable signals.

West Sussex County Council and Chichester District Council are working with technology providers on the OpenDigital project, which will improve the infrastructure available across North Street, South Street, East Street, West Street and Tower Street.

The scheme follows complaints from businesses, residents and visitors who have experienced poor mobile coverage in the city centre, making it difficult to make calls, send messages, use apps and process mobile payments.

Work is due to begin on Monday 21 September and will be carried out in phases over the coming months.

The project will install the infrastructure needed to allow mobile network operators to improve their services in the city centre.

Councils say the system has been designed so it can be shared by different network operators, reducing the need for additional columns or equipment to be installed in the future.

Cllr Yvonne Gravely, Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills at West Sussex County Council, said: "Let’s be honest, poor mobile signal in Chichester city centre is something many people experience, and we know how frustrating that can be.

"Whether you're running a business, making a payment, finding your way around the city or simply trying to stay in touch with family and friends, reliable mobile coverage has become an essential part of everyday life. We have heard and listened to these concerns and believe this project, in partnership with Chichester District Council, will improve the situation."

The councils say the equipment has been carefully designed to respect Chichester's historic character and will be installed discreetly away from areas with the highest levels of pedestrian activity.

Cllr Gravely added: "This project is about putting the right infrastructure in place so mobile network operators can deliver stronger, more reliable coverage where it’s needed most, while making sure we respect Chichester’s character at the same time.

"By investing now, we're supporting local businesses, improving the experience for residents and visitors and helping prepare Chichester for future technologies and services."

The mobile improvements are also being coordinated with wider work planned to improve public spaces in the city centre.

Officials say the scheme is intended to support high street businesses and outdoor traders while improving accessibility and the condition of footways and pedestrian areas.

Cllr Adrian Moss, Leader of Chichester District Council and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: "This investment will help businesses across Chichester benefit from better connectivity, making it easier to adopt new technologies and take cashless payments. It will also support events, attract more visitors and help drive growth and innovation in the city centre."

Underground infrastructure work is being carried out ahead of planned public realm improvements later in the year.

The councils say this should help avoid streets having to be dug up again once improvement works have been completed.

Regular updates will be issued as the OpenDigital project progresses.

To learn more, visit: Chichester OpenDigital Project - West Sussex County Council

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