The UK government's 4G rollout is improving mobile coverage in rural areas, benefiting tourists and locals alike.
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London, UK – August 26, 2024:
Ramblers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts exploring the Great British countryside this bank holiday will benefit from significantly improved mobile coverage thanks to the UK government's ongoing 4G rollout.
According to UK government, four new masts have been switched on in some of Britain's most popular national parks, providing faster and more reliable connectivity to visitors and locals alike. This upgrade will enhance safety, reduce signal disruptions, and make it easier for people to navigate, share experiences, and access essential services.
The key locations targeted by the program include areas of outstanding natural beauty such as Snowdonia, the Shropshire Hills, the Wye Valley, and the Brecon Beacons. This initiative is part of the government's broader effort to address the digital divide and ensure that everyone, regardless of location, has access to the same opportunities.
Minister of State for Telecoms Chris Bryant emphasized the importance of this connectivity boost for visitors and residents alike. He stated, "We want everyone to be able to enjoy the breathtaking views of our mountains, parks, and lakes without worrying about their mobile connection."
The improved coverage is expected to reduce the risk of tourists needing emergency assistance, easing the burden on emergency services during busy periods. In the event of an emergency, the new masts will provide first responders with immediate access to vital data, images, and information, enabling faster and more efficient rescues.
Mountain Rescue England and Wales has welcomed the upgrade, recognizing the increased demand for their services and the crucial role that reliable mobile coverage plays in ensuring timely assistance. Mike Park, the organization's Chief Executive Officer, noted that the improved connectivity has significantly reduced the time it takes for rescue teams to be alerted to emergencies.
The boost in mobile coverage is part of the Shared Rural Network program, a £1 billion initiative aimed at improving connectivity in rural areas. By upgrading existing masts rather than building new ones, the program minimizes the environmental impact while delivering significant benefits to residents and visitors.
Beyond national parks, the upgrade will also benefit tourists visiting historic landmarks such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site Blaenavon Industrial Landscape and the Norman-era Caldicot Castle and Country Park.
The Shared Rural Network has already led to an additional 14,800 square kilometers receiving coverage from all four major mobile operators. The UK government is also investing in upgrades to the Home Office's Emergency Service Network mobile masts to provide coverage from all four operators, primarily in Scotland and Wales.
Mobile operators are contributing over £500 million to target partial "not spots" where customers can only access 4G if they are signed up with a specific network. This effort has resulted in significant coverage improvements across the UK, including in Shetland, Yorkshire, Fermanagh, and Devon.
The Shared Rural Network is a collaborative effort between the government and mobile operators to bridge the digital divide and ensure that everyone, regardless of location, can enjoy the benefits of reliable mobile connectivity.