A project has been launched to map the 'not-spots' where mobile signal is lacking in Ceredigion and Powys.

Growing Mid Wales (GMW) has kick-started the project to spotlight areas with poor mobile and 4G internet connectivity across these regions.

Advanced mobile data-capturing devices will be installed in waste collection vehicles to gather data throughout their routine routes.

This inventive method ensures meticulous data collection without additional costs.

The main aim of this project is to create a comprehensive map of mobile coverage in Mid Wales, pinpointing areas with inadequate mobile signal and networking issues.

Data from the four key Mobile Network Operators - EE, O2, Three, and Vodafone - will be collected.

GMW will utilise collected data to create specific projects and interventions to tackle connectivity challenges in essential areas.

Driving this project is the Mid Wales Growth Deal Digital Programme, a significant £110m investment commitment from the UK and Welsh Governments.

This investment aims to be a catalyst for economic recovery and growth across the region.

Local authorities in Powys and Ceredigion support this project and it is funded by the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund.

A significant output from this project will be the introduction of a 'coverage checker tool'. Consequently launching on the GMW website later this summer, this free tool will allow residents and stakeholders to examine mobile coverage in their areas and figure out the most advantageous mobile providers for their individual needs.

In its partnership with mobile network analysts Streetwave, GMW aims to achieve success with a ground-breaking, cost-effective approach to this mission.

The GMW team emphasised its importance and commitment to regional development and said: "We are thrilled to launch this groundbreaking project in Mid Wales.

"Identifying and addressing 'mobile not-spots' and areas of poor network capacity is crucial for the region's development."

The GMW team further explained: "This initiative aligns with GMW's overarching goals, supporting decision-making for digital infrastructure deployments, regional economic development, and innovation.

"Having better information about coverage will increase our ability to work with commercial providers to address genuine not-spots and problem areas in coverage.

"In turn, this will help us pinpoint the areas where public intervention may be required to accelerate and/or enable deployment to ensure we have safe, reliable coverage across the region."

Regular updates on project progress will be provided.

Any interested parties can sign up to the GMW newsletter at growingmidwales@ceredigion.gov.uk for more information.