Phone Mast People and the National Connectivity Alliance

The National Connectivity Alliance (NCA) is a UK-based initiative that brings together telecoms operators, infrastructure providers, landowners, and professional representatives to improve cooperation in delivering nationwide digital connectivity. Launched in 2023, the NCA aims to build trust, share best practices, and support policy frameworks that enable faster, fairer rollout of mobile and broadband infrastructure.

Aims of the National Connectivity Alliance

• Encouraging Collaboration – Creating a space where telecom companies and landowners can communicate more effectively.

• Developing Best Practice Guidelines – Helping stakeholders understand each other's needs and reduce friction during negotiations.

• Supporting National Policy – Working with government to shape balanced legislation that meets the UK’s digital connectivity goals.

At its launch, Digital Infrastructure Minister Julia Lopez MP endorsed the NCA for bringing parties together to “boost connectivity, productivity and the economy.”

Key Outputs to Date

• Communications Framework – A structured approach to engagement between site providers and telecoms operators, promoting transparency and clarity during negotiations and renewals.

• Working Groups – Cross-industry task forces tackling specific challenges and building consensus around fair practice.

Future Plans

• Growing Membership – Expanding participation to reflect the full range of voices involved in the sector.

• Education and Training – Providing learning resources to improve understanding across the industry.

• Ongoing Policy Engagement– Informing government decisions that impact how connectivity infrastructure is deployed across the UK.

Phone Mast People’s Involvement

Gemma Wright, Director of Phone Mast People, has been an active participant in discussions surrounding the NCA for several years. Representing landlords across the UK, Gemma has consistently championed the need for balance in what is often a one-sided conversation dominated by the telecoms industry.

While the NCA presents an opportunity for improved cooperation, there is growing concern that its influence on policy could further tilt the scales in favour of operators. It is essential that landlords' rights are not only protected, but that their voices are heard and respected in every negotiation and policy decision.

Gemma has worked hard to establish constructive relationships with key figures on the operators’ side, building mutual understanding and trust. This has directly benefited Phone Mast People clients, enabling us to negotiate fairer, more transparent agreements and to protect our clients' long-term interests.

Our involvement with the NCA ensures we remain at the heart of the industry conversation – advocating for landlords, challenging imbalance, and pushing for a more equitable telecoms landscape.

More information on the NCA can be found on their website: https://www.ncalliance.org.uk/