Village mobile signal strength at '˜90 per cent'

The testing, conducted by Ofcom, indicated an overall success rate of 90 per cent for calls made in Storrington High Street.

Members of the council were presented with the statistical information on Monday which supported the findings of the testings.

A spokesman for the council said members were surprised by the recent results given that nearly 1,000 residents had completed feedback forms reporting poor or non existent signal.

The spokesman said: “Although very disappointed that the results were at variance and did not meet its expectations or those of the community, the Parish Council does not be accept them as a true reflection of the situation and will be presenting the findings of the feedback given by the community to the mobile network providers and seeking their support for improvements.”

The area of testing was Storrington High Street and adjoining roads but the Parish Council says it will continue its aim of obtaining proper reception in Storrington, Sullington and Washington.

The council said discussions are continuing with representatives of 02 and Vodaphone for a mast at the leisure centre. However there would be the benefit of much enhanced data transmission for which 02 is required to provide 98 per cent indoor reception by the end of the year.

The spokesman added: “The parish council is conscious of the fact that commercial considerations play a significant part in the decision making of network providers when planning new installations and enhancements and pressing for more costly enhancements may be counter productive.

“Improvement of transmission from other masts in the area will be pursued but with an eye on 4G, major enhancements are considered to be very unlikely.

“Achieving proper signal for the villages will not be an easy task, not least because the topography of the area requires greater infrastructure and expenditure than many other areas but efforts will continue.”

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