Transport for London (TfL) has started the ball rolling on securing mobile data coverage on London's Underground after inviting bids from providers.
A spokesman confirmed that last week TfL hosted a closed-door supplier event at City Hall ahead of the start of the procurement to deliver 4G mobile coverage across the Tube covering both tunnels and stations.
The industry event, at which no media were allowed, was attended by officials from major mobile phone networks as well as representatives from mobile technology companies from across the world, Transport Network understands.
TfL said it expects to issue a 'standard selection questionnaire' to suppliers in the coming weeks, 'allowing for a service partner to be brought on-board by summer 2018 and the first stations to be connected from 2019'.
The move will provide TfL with vital commercial income as it seeks to become self-sufficient after its £700m a year government grant is set to end from 2018-19.
The transport authority could not say at this stage how much the contract is likely to be worth.
Graeme Craig, director of commercial development at TfL, said: 'Our Connected London event is bringing together a range of exciting companies who can help us unlock one of the UK’s most high profile not-spots, and deliver 4G mobile coverage throughout our tunnels and Tube stations.
'We remain committed to introduce this in our stations from 2019, allowing customers to check their emails, read the latest news and social media updates as well as check for live travel information while underground on the Tube.'
Register now for full access
Register just once to get unrestricted, real-time coverage of the issues and challenges facing UK transport and highways engineers.
Full website content includes the latest news, exclusive commentary from leading industry figures and detailed topical analysis of the highways, transportation, environment and place-shaping sectors.
Use the link below to register your details for full, free access.
Already a registered? Login
