Have your say: mobile phone use on the underground

Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) said the move would enhance the travelling experience for customers and increase their feeling of security.

All 15 underground stations will provide mobile coverage for passengers by the summer of 2007.

Wi-fi will be trialled at Buchanan Street underground and if succesful rolled out to other stations.

A report by Gordon Maclennan, assistant chief executive for customer services, was approved at a meeting of SPT.

He said: "Such coverage would enhance the travelling experience for customers and increase their feeling of security with the network.

"Coverage would also be beneficial for SPT staff use."

Commonwealth bid

The service will be provided by Arqiva, formerly NTL Broadcast, at no cost to SPT.

Arqiva can also transmit wi-fi, DAB radio and mobile TV.

The company may be granted a licence for 10 years.

Mr Maclennan added: "Arqiva will install equipment to provide mobile phone coverage of the platform areas, with residual coverage penetrating into the tunnels."

The aim is to provide coverage prior to a visit of the 2014 Commonwealth Games evaluation committee next summer.

SPT said wi-fi could be used to generate revenue through video advertising.

London Underground is pressing ahead with plans to have mobile phone transmitters in the Tube.