As the UK construction sector faces significant headwinds, including a five-year low in activity (S&P Global Construction Purchasing Managers Index), a new report from Mobile UK highlights the crucial role of mobile connectivity in overcoming key challenges and enabling the Government to meet its ambitious target of 1.5 million new homes by 2030.

The construction industry is grappling with pressing issues surrounding safety, efficiency, and a widening skills gap. With 59,000 non-fatal injuries occurring annually and 21% of firms experiencing weekly theft, the need for transformative solutions is paramount. Mobile technologies, particularly the advancements offered by 5G, present a powerful pathway to reshape the industry's future.

Innovation Powered by Mobile:

5G connectivity offers the potential to revolutionise construction through:

• Enhanced Safety: Real-time data and communication can significantly improve site safety and reduce accidents.

• Addressing Workforce Shortages: Automation and remote operation facilitated by robust mobile networks can alleviate labour pressures.

• Upskilling the Workforce: An impressive 60% of construction firms utilising 5G are integrating Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) for training purposes, demonstrating the technology's impact on developing the next generation of skilled workers.

• Improved Security: Enhanced connectivity strengthens security measures, mitigating the impact of theft.

Mobile UK, the trade body for the UK’s four mobile network operators, has released a comprehensive report, ‘Integrating Bytes and Networks into Bricks and Mortar’, which details how enhanced connectivity can tackle these critical industry challenges. The report reveals that 73% of construction companies plan to deploy 5G technology within the next year, underscoring the sector’s appetite for digital transformation. However, the lack of adequate 5G infrastructure is preventing them from realising the full potential of these technologies.

Call to Action: Invest in Connectivity, Build the Future

Mobile UK urgently calls on the Government to recognise mobile infrastructure as a fundamental pillar for economic growth and to understand its pivotal role in supporting the ambition to build 1.5 million homes by 2030. Now is the time to bridge the connectivity gap.  

Learn more about the transformative power of mobile connectivity in construction. Read the full report, ‘Integrating Bytes and Networks into Bricks and Mortar’ here. Join us in urging the Government to prioritise mobile infrastructure investment and build a stronger, more connected future for UK construction.

Commenting on this Gareth Elliott, Director of Policy and Communications said  

“With the construction sector at the heart of the Government’s growth ambitions, investing in mobile infrastructure has never been more crucial.

“Amid the tough choices that will have to be made to deliver this growth mission, supporting mobile operators is one of the easiest. Mobile connectivity is the backbone of modern construction, offering robust and reliable networks that enhance training, close the skills gap, and equip the next generation with the tools they need to drive impactful change. Government must prioritise mobile infrastructure to accelerate deployment and drive growth for the nation.”

The construction report produced by Mobile UK outlines eight recommendations for the Government to help the mobile sector drive economic growth and innovation across the construction industry. Read the full report here.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

Visit Mobile UK’s website here: https://www.mobileuk.org/

For further information:

Jonathan.Adams@Purplefish.Agency / Joanna.Randall@Purplefish.Agency  

0117 925 1356

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