Is your mobile signal rubbish? Council uses bin lorries to map mobile coverage in Norfolk

Norfolk County Council has launched a new online tool that will help residents to check mobile signal in their area, using data collected from Norfolk's bin lorries.

Earlier this year, the council partnered with mobile analysts Streetwave to install monitoring devices on waste collection vehicles across all seven districts in Norfolk.

You can check mobile coverage in your area using the service. Enter your post code into the online checker, or browse the coverage map, which you can filter by network. 

These devices measure the quality of mobile networks across the county, collecting data on signal strength and download speeds. 

Councillor Jane James, cabinet member for corporate services and innovation at Norfolk County Council said: 'Not having a mobile signal when you really need it is incredibly frustrating and this tool will help residents and businesses to find the best service in their area. 

'We will also use this data to push for better signal coverage in Norfolk. Providers frequently claim extensive coverage, but we know that the situation on the ground can be very different. 

'We will work alongside Ofcom and key providers to ensure resources are used where they are needed the most to keep Norfolk connected.'

The data covers the four main Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) who are the companies that own and operate the physical infrastructure required for mobile communication services. In the UK they are EE, O2, Three, and Vodafone. Other providers will use one of the MNO networks, for example giffgaff use O2's network, while iD Mobile is based on Three's network. Check which network your provider uses. 

The survey devices checked outdoor coverage, with the data from waste collection vehicles supplemented by one fire service vehicle and a backpack-based device used for ad-hoc surveys. 

Real-world indoor coverage can be affected by a range of factors, including the construction of a property. 

While the data covers many areas of Norfolk it isn't definitive and should be used as an additional tool alongside other sources of information. This information will continue to be updated over time to help everyone make the right choices with the best possible information available. 

The results from this coverage checker are taken using mobile handsets that have been physically performing speed and signal strength tests. This differs from the coverage checkers provided by Ofcom or the mobile network operators which are often estimates with limited real-world measurements.