THE DIGITAL divide is worsening, with mobile phone coverage below average for many New England towns.

A digital connectivity index scores Glen Innes, Moree and Narrabri as having either below average or average coverage.

The government index measures mobile and internet performance, region by region.

It shows Barraba, Manilla and Pilliga as having such poor coverage, they were unlikely to be able to access telehealth and video conferencing services.

The data was revealed following an independent review of regional telecommunications.

While the review made 14 recommendations, the federal response, just published, has been tepid, according to regional leaders.

Glen Innes continues to suffer from mobile coverage blackspots along main routes into the town, including along the New England

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