Residents have until April 28 to weigh in on proposed cuts to rural telecommunications infrastructure
BT has launched a public consultation on plans to remove 19 public call boxes across Aberdeenshire, prompting calls for residents to voice their views before the deadline on April 28.
The move comes as part of a broader review by the telecommunications company, which is assessing phone boxes that do not meet Ofcom’s protection criteria. Under these rules, phone boxes can only be removed if certain conditions are met—such as adequate mobile coverage or low usage.
To retain protection, a call box must meet at least one of the following:
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It is the only box in the area and lacks full mobile coverage.
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It is located in a high-risk area with frequent accidents or emergencies.
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It was used to make 52 or more calls over the past year.
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There is other demonstrable evidence of community need.
Local authorities and community councils have been invited to submit representations and supporting evidence. Individuals and groups are also encouraged to participate by completing a short online survey available through the Aberdeenshire Council’s engagement platform.
The list of affected call boxes and the survey link can be accessed at: https://engage.aberdeenshire.gov.uk.
BT’s review is part of a national strategy to modernise telecommunications infrastructure, but it has sparked concern in rural areas where mobile coverage may be unreliable, and public phones still play a critical role in emergencies.
The consultation remains open until Monday, April 28.
