London Underground passengers can anticipate full mobile phone coverage across the entire network by the close of 2024, with Transport for London (TfL) announcing ambitious targets for widespread connectivity. While the complete network, including all stations, is slated for mobile signal by year-end, TfL aims for every underground station to have 4G and 5G by the end of 2026. This initiative marks a significant step towards improving passenger experience and operational efficiency across the capital's transport system.
Currently, approximately 60 per cent of the underground stations on the Tube network are equipped with 4G and 5G signal. Recent weeks have seen considerable progress in extending this coverage, with new signal now active in tunnelled sections of the Bakerloo line between Queen’s Park and Edgware Road. Similarly, the Metropolitan line has gained connectivity between Euston Square and King’s Cross St Pancras, as well as between Barbican and Moorgate stations. Further extensions have been made on the Circle and District lines, connecting Cannon Street with Monument, Sloane Square with Victoria, and Bayswater with Paddington.
Beyond the tunnels, busy stations such as Vauxhall, Temple, Nine Elms, and Gloucester Road have also recently gone live with mobile coverage. Larger, more complex interchange stations like King's Cross St Pancras, Victoria, and Paddington will receive coverage in phases, prioritising ticket halls and platforms in the initial stages. TfL anticipates that the majority of tunnels on the Northern, Bakerloo, and Metropolitan lines will have coverage by the end of summer this year, ensuring more seamless journeys for commuters.
This extensive rollout is a collaborative effort involving the four major mobile network operators: Three, EE, Vodafone, and Virgin Media O2. Boldyn Network is also a key partner, acting as a neutral host for these providers. The introduction of signal across the Tube network is not solely for passenger convenience; it will also host the new Emergency Services Network (ESN). Once fully operational, the ESN will provide first responders with immediate access to crucial data, images, and information during live incidents and emergencies, significantly enhancing public safety capabilities.
The timing of this announcement follows a recent report from industry regulator Ofcom, which highlighted poor mobile performance on train networks across the country. Ofcom's study found that between 58 per cent and 83 per cent of tests on trains showed poor mobile connectivity, prompting calls for better services. The Tube's connectivity upgrade therefore addresses a broader national issue of improving mobile access on public transport.