RESIDENTS in Alfrick are now benefiting from improved mobile connectivity thanks to a new 4G solution delivered through a partnership between Worcestershire County Council, Wavemobile, and the local community.
The project follows concerns raised by residents about poor mobile coverage, particularly in the north of the village.
Data gathered by Worcestershire County Council confirmed significant coverage “not-spots”, prompting work to identify a practical interim solution while longer-term network improvements are explored.
To improve coverage quickly, the Council worked with Wavemobile and local residents to install a 4G small cell solution at Alfrick Community Village Shop. The system went live on 8 May 2026.
The new system provides coverage of up to 3km, seamless roaming, allowing phones to switch automatically if their usual signal drops, no additional cost to users, working through existing mobile contracts and improved reliability for important and emergency calls.
Coun Adam Kent, deputy leader and cabinet member with responsbility for finance, corporate services and business at the council said: “Improving rural connectivity remains a major priority and warned that operators must do more to address poor service in parts of Worcestershire.”
“Residents in rural communities should not have to tolerate unreliable signal and poor mobile coverage in 2026.
“We listened to the concerns raised by the Alfrick community and worked with partners to deliver a practical solution that improves connectivity now, rather than waiting years for wider infrastructure upgrades.
“This project demonstrates how innovation and partnership working can deliver real improvements for rural communities.”
Councillor Kent also said Worcestershire County Council would continue pressing mobile operators to improve standards and investment across the county.
He added: ““There are still too many areas across Worcestershire suffering from unacceptable coverage and inconsistent performance from operators.
“We will continue challenging poor service, holding operators to account and pushing for stronger investment into rural infrastructure so communities are not left behind.
“Reliable connectivity is essential for modern life – whether for businesses, farming, emergency contact, education, tourism or simply allowing residents to stay connected.”
Visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk/digitalconnectivity for more information.
