PLANS to enhance mobile network coverage and capacity in Christchurch have been shared with the town council.

Mobile infrastructure services company Cornerstone is proposing an upgrade to an existing base station located at Cellnet Hurn in Sandy Lane, St. Catherine's Hill.

It has written a consultation letter to Christchurch Town Council, detailing the plans and asking for feedback before proceeding with the works.

The company told acting town clerk James Atkinson: “As part of Cornerstone network improvement program, there is a specific requirement for an upgrade at this location to improve coverage and capacity by providing 5G coverage in the area.

“Mobiles can only work with a network of base stations in place where people want to use their mobile phones or other wireless devices. Without base stations, the mobile phones, and other devices we rely on simply won’t work.”

The proposed upgrades include the replacement of three antennas at a height of 34.4 meters on the existing 40-meter lattice tower, and the installation of eight remote radio units (RRUs) and three BOB units with associated ancillary equipment on the same 40-meter lattice tower.

Cornerstone said the modifications will not increase the height or visual impact of the existing base station.

According to the consultation letter, the company had evaluated alternative site options but opted to upgrade the current base station instead of constructing a new one in the area.

The company said that the existing base station is already integrated into the local landscape, making an alternative location unnecessary.

Cornerstone’s proposals have been added to the agenda for Christchurch Town Council’s planning and regulatory committee meeting on November 12.