As set out in the Radically Digital Stockport Strategy112, the council seeks to actively promote the development of advanced communications and digital infrastructure, which provides improved telecommunications coverage and supports more inclusive access and connectivity for all across Stockport.

The NPPF sets out that a range of different types of infrastructure should be planned for, including sufficient provision of telecommunications infrastructure. Digital connectivity, which includes broadband and mobile phones, is increasingly considered to be the essential fourth “utility”. Stockport’s digital infrastructure must be able to support this growth, to make sure that everyone, wherever they live and however they connect, can make full use of digital services and benefit from participation in the digital economy, and not leave anyone behind or excluded. With increased on-line services and growth of home-based workers, the provision of FTTP to homes and businesses will become increasingly important to support more flexible working practices; as a consequence, it is expected that the pattern of commuter travel will change further.

The council will lead by example to deliver a ‘Smart town’ that is digitally connected for all, and will work with other public bodies and the telecommunications industry to maximise access to ultra-fast broadband, wireless hotspots and improved mobile signal reception across Stockport, particularly within the town centre. The council will work to assist communities and organisations to deliver investment plans and secure funding to address any digital connectivity infrastructure deficiencies or barriers. Developers and providers are encouraged to improve the level of connectivity in the borough to make Stockport a viable destination for commercial enterprises in the future. The council will generally be supportive of proposals that improve digital infrastructure and access to business services / managed workspaces in town centre locations that may come forward.

Mobile telecommunications providers (also known ‘electronic communications code operators’) have certain permitted development rights as set out in Part 16 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015. Telecommunications development therefore falls into three categories, those which:

require planning permission;

require the prior approval of the council; and

are permitted development.