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5G technology and infrastructure

We frequently receive Freedom of Information (FOI) and Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) requests regarding 5G technology and infrastructure. Therefore, for the purposes of transparency and openness, we have compiled comprehensive information regarding this common topic below.

What is 5G?

5G is the 5th generation of mobile technology. The government has produced a fact sheet and guidance on 5G technology.

Planning applications for 5G infrastructure

Planning applications, including applications for the installation of 5G infrastructure, are published on our Public Access Portal.

Planning applications for the installation of 5G infrastructure may hold the following information:

  • ICNIRP certificates
  • power outputs
  • power intensity drop off calculations

If not, this information would be held by telecommunication companies.

We do not hold a detailed plan of all the 5G infrastructure in Maidstone, and not all 5G infrastructure requires planning permission. If you are unable to find the information you are looking for in our Public Access Portal, you should try contacting telecommunication companies to request the information from them.

We also do not hold any information on 5G infrastructure that may be installed in future, this information would be held by telecommunication companies.

5G strategy and risk assessments

We do not have a 5G Strategy, and we have not undertaken risk assessments or environmental impact assessments in respect of 5G installations and technology.

Emissions from 5G technology and installations are governed by this UK Health Security Agency guidance – Mobile phone base stations: radio waves and health. The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and the World Health Organization have published information about 5G technology and health.

5G funding and investments

We do not invest into the installation of 5G technology, and we do not receive any funding from 5G technology or installation companies.

5G insurance

Our public Liability Cover would indemnify us against any harm caused by 5G if it were found to be negligent.