MOBILE 4G signals could soon improve in the Shaftesbury area.
A planning application has been submitted for an upgraded mast at West Melbury Farm, Melbury Abbas.

Currently 16m high, the plans outline a proposed extension of the tower that would take it to about 21m, in a bid to improve 4G signals in the area.
Cellnex’s planning statement said the upgrade would mean the station could ‘provide 4G coverage to the cell area’ in accordance with conditions from communications regulator Ofcom.

As well as the main mast, the station would include about six antennas and two dishes, along with other equipment.
“The application site has been selected by the operator as this will provide the required level of 4G and other network coverage while properly meeting national town planning policy objectives,” it said.
The provision of better 4G would be ‘critical to economic growth and sustainable communities’, it added.

Planners at Dorset Council are now considering the scheme, with a decision expected in the New Year.
For more details, log on to www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and search for application reference P/PAEL/2022/07833.