Transport for London has formally started the process to bring 4G to Tube tunnels and stations.
The agency has today published a selection questionnaire to be completed by potential suppliers and says responses are due in by 6th July to allow it to issue a tender invitation in early August.
The successful bidder will need to provide mobile coverage in Tube tunnels, stations and platforms, and certain stations and platforms of the Elizabeth Line, construct a commercial fibre optic network and provide a public Wi-Fi service in specified TfL stations.
TfL says it hopes to appoint a partner by early 2019 and is aiming for the first stations to be connected during 2019.
Graeme Craig, Director of Commercial Development at TfL, said: “This is an important step towards delivering 4G mobile coverage throughout our tunnels and Tube stations and across our on-street infrastructure, which will unlock one of the UK’s most high profile not-spots.
“Once delivered, this will allow customers to check their emails and read the latest news and social media updates as well as check for live travel information while underground on the Tube.
“We hope for a wide range of interest from companies all across the world as part of this procurement process and we remain committed to introducing 4G coverage from 2019.”
