A campaign for better digital infrastructure by Havant MP Alan Mak is paying off, after he helped unveil Vodafone’s latest 4G phone mast on Hayling Island.
Since becoming an MP Mr Mak has been lobbying hard in Westminster for better access to superfast broadband, WIFI and 4G mobile internet. That campaign is paying off, with the latest statistics showing that the Havant constituency has download speeds a third quicker than the national average, and the fifth fastest in the South-East.
In addition 98% of residents now have access to superfast broadband, meaning we are well above the Government target. In fact four wards – Purbrook, Stakes, Warren Park and Bedhampton – have 100% access, with others not far behind.
Now the latest improvement by Vodafone on Hayling Island means that all the major mobile phone providers have near complete 4G coverage across the constituency.
Havant is leading the way when it comes to connectivity, and that investment will be complemented by the Digital Economy Bill which is currently going through Parliament. The Bill will introduce a Universal Service Obligation so every household in the country will have access to broadband at a speed of 10Mbps. The is new law will also cut red tape for investment, and introduce new measures to prevent spam email and nuisance calls.
Alan Mak MP said: "I've been working hard to lobby for local infrastructure upgrades for our residents, businesses and communities, so it was good to see the latest upgrade to Hayling Island's mobile coverage. It will make a real difference to residents, and I'm pleased that nearly all of Hayling now has 4G coverage. The Havant constituency has some of the best levels of high-speed internet access and 4G coverage, making it one of the best places in the country to do business. Thanks to firms like Vodafone for continuing to invest in the Island's infrastructure."
Picture: Alan Mak MP at the newly upgraded Hayling mobile phone mast (with Rob Matthews, senior community relations manager from Vodafone)