Masts and network build
O2 is guided by and fully supports best practice in the development of its mobile networks and we aim to be transparent in our network building plans. In total, our networks include 25,548 base stations. Wherever possible we aim to share sites with other operators.
Our approach - particularly in the current development of 3G services in the UK, Germany and Ireland, and Airwave - is to encourage dialogue and consultation with stakeholders.
Number of queries to O2 UK on the sitings of communications masts 2004/05
We support the GSM Europe (GSME) recommendations on best practice, the UK industry's Ten Commitments to best siting practice, the code of best practice on mobile network development, and the joint operator voluntary agreement in Germany. These require improved communication and consultation, compliance with exposure guidelines and increased site sharing where feasible.
Our performance in meeting the Ten Commitments has been independently reviewed by Deloitte & Touche, on behalf of the Mobile Operators’ Association, which published its second review during the year. The report concluded that the industry as a whole is improving its performance but that it could do better still. In response we have introduced improvements to our record keeping in the UK and are currently examining where we can consult local communities better.
Our performance in meeting the joint operator voluntary agreement in Germany was reviewed for the third time by Deutsche Institut für Urbanistik (German Institute of Urban Affairs).
In the UK, we experienced an increase in objections to new builds. This stemmed partly from our increased activities with 3G network building and partly, we believe, from the readily available information we produce for the public.
We have a dedicated team of community relations managers in each of our businesses and their job is to engage with local communities on our network building, especially if there is local opposition to a mast structure. We attend public meetings, consult through drop-in sessions, distribute information leaflets and, in the UK, operate a dedicated helpline for enquiries – telephone 0113 388 6780.
We provide local planning authorities with a list of all the UK sites we plan to develop in any coming year. This helps them to work with our community teams and to address potential concerns.