Improving digital connectivity on our network

We're improving digital connectivity for our customers to drive the next wave of innovation and growth in London. We've awarded Boldyn Networks a 20-year contract.
Woman using mobile phone at Westminster station

What we're doing 

TfL and Boldyn Networks are working with the four major UK mobile operators (Three UK, EE, Vodafone and Virgin Media O2) to bring high-speed 4G and 5G mobile connectivity across London, below ground and at street level.

As part of this work, we are:

  • Extending mobile phone coverage across the whole Tube, Elizabeth line, DLR and Overground line including within the tunnels in between stations
  • Improving mobile coverage above ground in busy areas on the roads we manage (red routes)
  • Supporting London boroughs to expand connectivity and enhancing CCTV - funded by the Greater London Authority (GLA)
  • Continuing to offer high-speed free Wi-Fi network across the Tube network
  • Replacing the Airwave system with the Emergency Services Network (ESN) on behalf of the Home Office

How we're improving coverage

We're continuing to roll out mobile coverage on the Tube, making it easier for customers to stay in touch with friends, family and work while travelling. Our Connected London programme sees all 4 mobile network operators (Three Mobile, EE, Vodafone and Virgin Media-O2) bringing high-speed 4G and 5G mobile connectivity across the Tube.

As well as keeping customers connected, this technology will also host the new Emergency Service Network, which, when fully operational, will give first responders immediate access to lifesaving data, images and information in live situations and emergencies.

Above ground, to support improved mobile coverage in high footfall areas, we're also working with Boldyn Networks to install 'small cells' transmitters, which are low-powered cellular radio units installed, to help enhance mobile coverage and capacity.

We've installed the first 'small cells' on Euston Road and around Waterloo and Hyde Park, boosting mobile connectivity in and around London's busiest transport and tourist hubs.

Why we're doing the work

Mobile connectivity on the Tube

To make it easier for customers to stay in touch with friends, family and work while travelling.   

Improving coverage across London

We're working to install 3400 'small cells' on some of TfL's existing roadside assets, such as lighting columns. These will improve London's 4G and 5G connectivity and speeds in London's dense urban environment, particularly in areas with high demand and poor connectivity.

Connectivity for London's boroughs

We're working in collaboration with the GLA and Boldyn Networks to deliver new gigabit fibre to public centre sites and CCTV sites across London.

This will help residents of all London boroughs have access to education and jobs, boosting productivity. We'll be reaching over 500 CCTV locations and 200 borough buildings.

What we've done so far

The following sections of the network which are below ground now have coverage:

Elizabeth line

All stations now have 4G and tunnel sections now have 5G.

Bakerloo line

Mobile coverage is available at Piccadilly Circus station.

Northern line

Mobile coverage available from Highgate station and Hampstead station to Embankment station on the Charing Cross branch.

On the Southern section of the line, Clapham Common and Clapham South and the tunnel section between Clapham Common and Balham are live with a mobile signal.

Central line

Mobile coverage is available from Shepherds Bush to Bank.

Jubilee line

Mobile coverage is available from Westminster to Canning Town.

Piccadilly line

Mobile coverage available between Hyde Park Corner and Russell Square.

Victoria line

Mobile coverage available between Green Park and Euston.

What's next

By the end of 2024, TfL and Boldyn Networks expect to deliver mobile coverage to additional sections of the Northern, Piccadilly and Victoria lines, as well as introduce coverage on the first sections of the Bakerloo line.