BT to Replace Phone Boxes with Street Hubs

The biggest telecoms company in Britain is set to replace phone boxes with new ‘street hubs’ throughout Reading.

The UK's biggest telecoms firm, BT, is planning to replace old phone boxes with modern 'Street Hubs' across Reading.

These outdated phone boxes, a remnant from the 1990s, are set to be replaced at four key locations: outside Great Brighams Mead on Vastern Road, Church Street in Caversham, the Shell station at Norcot junction, and a row of shops on Shinfield Road.

The new grey Street Hubs will offer calls, free Wi-Fi, and advertising space.

A BT spokesperson said, “Street Hubs provide a range of benefits to local communities, including free ultra-fast Wi-Fi, phone calls, rapid device charging, real-time public information, and a dedicated 999 button for emergencies.”

There’s also potential for mini mobile masts to enhance 4G and 5G coverage in the area.

The hubs will also feature street-level advertising, with 5% of screen time reserved for Reading Borough Council.

BT has submitted planning applications to the council for these locations, which require both planning permission and advertising consent:

• Great Brighams Mead – PL/25/1351 and PL/25/1356
• 29 Church Street, Caversham – PL/25/1352 and PL/25/1357
• Shell Norcot – PL/25/1353 and PL/25/1358
• 239 Shinfield Road – PL/25/1354 and PL/25/1359

James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter