In wonderfully ironic news, it turns out that trees planted by network providers, to offset the construction of mobile masts back in the 90’s, have now grown so tall that they are hindering reception for customers.
A survey by EE has discovered that almost a third of their 36,000 mobile masts are currently affected by trees overtaking them in height, and it appears there’s nothing they can do about it. This is because they aren’t allowed to chop the trees down or increase the height of the masts themselves.
Network providers are currently seeking to increase the height of these masts, with the government pledging to review existing rules. There is even support from the Countryside Alliance, who aim to improve coverage in rural areas so that they can stay connected with the rest of the country. That said, networks have been told that local opposition could still derail any construction plans put into motion.
So the next time you can’t get any signal, don’t go blaming your provider – blame nature, and specifically those smug looking trees.
