Payphones across the borough could be scrapped following a decline in usage due to increase of mobile phones.

British Telecommunications PLC (BT) has announced plans to scrap seven payphones in Bushey and Bushey Heath, six in Borehamwood, one in Elstree, one in Aldenham, one in Letchmore Heath, one in Shenley, seven in Potters Bar and one in South Mimms.

The overall use of public payphones has declined by more than 90 per cent in the last decade with the rise of mobile phone use and increased 3G and 4G coverage across the UK.

While BT is behind the proposal, under Ofcom regulations, local authorities are responsible for conducting a public consultation about the intended removal.

Comments can be submitted until 5pm on Monday December 5 by emailing local.plan@hertsmere.gov.uk or writing.

Any objections or comments received will be considered. Members of the public will be able to view and comment on our proposed response, before it is submitted to BT.

A final decision on the future of the payphones will be made by BT.