A NEW 5G mast could be erected as part of the government’s call to increase digital connectivity across the country.

Fareham Borough Council has received an application from CK Hutchison Networks for the installation of the mast on Roman Grove, Portchester.

The applicant operates services for mobile provider 3 and says it is ‘committed’ to providing 5G services with greater capacity and coverage.

"t is recognised that high-speed mobile connectivity is the lifeblood of a community; facilitating educational benefits, providing access to vital services, improving communications with the associated commercial benefits for local businesses, enabling e-commerce and facilitating the increased need and demand for working from home, as well as enjoying access to social, media and gaming for leisure time activities."

In a supporting information statement, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport said the government supports investment in 5G infrastructure for economic growth and social inclusion.

"The government would like to see nationwide full fibre coverage by 2033," it reads.

"We would also like the UK to be a world leader in 5G, with the majority of the population covered by a 5G signal by 2027.

"While mobile coverage across the UK has been significantly improving, there are still too many areas where coverage is poor. The UK has now achieved 95 per cent superfast broadband coverage but still only six per cent full fibre coverage."

So far two local residents have commented on the application expressing supporting and opposing views.

Portchester resident Michael Crate said: "Far too large and unsightly for such a densely populated neighbourhood. Consideration must be given to a more secluded, less intrusive location."

However Sam Wilson of Windsor Road believes the area needs a ‘robust communication infrastructure that supports the needs of the community, please approve this application.’

If approved, the scheme would result in a 20m tall mast installed with additional equipment cabinets.

The planning application will need to be decided by December 22.