TfL rolls out mobile coverage across first Elizabeth line stations

Transport for London (TfL) has has announced that four central London stations on the Elizabeth line, including Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, Farringdon and Liverpool Street, have now been equipped with mobile coverage for the first time.

This development, marking a pivotal milestone, enables passengers to enjoy seamless connectivity throughout their journeys, from ticket halls to platforms, within these bustling stations. The implementation comes as part of TfL’s broader initiative to provide high-speed mobile coverage across key areas of London’s underground network.

The mobile coverage expansion, facilitated by all four major network operators – Three UK, EE, Vodafone and Virgin Media O2 (VMO2), enhances the overall experience for commuters and tourists alike, offering uninterrupted connectivity for various activities such as shopping, meeting friends, or accessing entertainment venues in the West End.

In addition, the provision of mobile coverage serves as a critical safety measure, ensuring passengers can stay connected with loved ones and access essential information during their travels. The implementation also lays the groundwork for the Emergency Services Network (ESN), enhancing response capabilities in emergency situations.

Collaborating with Boldyn Networks, TfL aims to extend mobile coverage to additional stations on the Elizabeth line, as well as the tunnelled sections. Recent advancements have seen the delivery of both 4G and 5G coverage, significantly enhancing connectivity options for passengers traversing the network.

TfL’s efforts to expand mobile coverage extend beyond the Elizabeth line. Recent months have seen notable progress, with sections of the Tube, including portions of the Central and Northern lines, receiving 4G and 5G coverage. Approximately 20% of underground stations now boast mobile coverage, with plans to increase coverage across the network.

Looking ahead, TfL plans to extend mobile coverage to stations on the Bakerloo, Victoria and Piccadilly lines. By the end of 2024, the agency aims to achieve significant coverage across the entire Tube network and the Elizabeth line, benefiting passengers and communities across London.

Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, said: “The new mobile coverage at these stations will be a major boost for those travelling around London – connecting key business centres and some of the popular parts of Central London and the West End. It will help Londoners and visitors to the capital to better navigate the capital and stay connected underground.”

Andy Lord, London’s Transport Commissioner, said: “I’m delighted that the first stations on the Elizabeth line now have high-quality mobile coverage. This is a vital project for London, allowing customers to be more connected underground and get the latest travel information and news, as well as stay in contact with work, friends and families while travelling on our network.”

The roll-out of mobile coverage is part of TfL’s broader strategy to modernise London’s transportation infrastructure, providing passengers with enhanced connectivity and safety measures across the underground network.