The UK government has denied a request from three mobile operators (Three, Vodafone, and Virgin Media O2) to extend the deadline for the first phase of the Shared Rural Network (SRN).
Dean Creamer, who leads Building Digital UK, the government organization responsible for the project, recently announced that the authority has rejected a request from the three mobile network operators to postpone the initial phase deadline by 18 months. “That wasn’t accepted, and we haven’t agreed [to] that, and we’ve said that Ofcom will make that assessment, as expected,” Creamer said.
The SRN aims to extend 4G coverage to 95% of the UK by 2025. This GBP 1 billion initiative is a collaboration between the UK's four major mobile operators—EE, Three, Vodafone, and Virgin Media O2. The funding for the project will be provided by the operators themselves and the government.
Expanding 4G Coverage
In the initial phase of the project, operators are required to address the coverage of 'partial not-spots' by expanding the coverage of their 4G networks. 'Partial not-spots' are areas where at least one operator provides coverage, but not all of them do.
Addressing 'partial not-spots' in the initial phase of the project holds great significance for enhancing 4G network coverage. These areas, where some operators provide coverage while others do not, represent gaps in connectivity that hinder reliable access to mobile services. By expanding 4G coverage in these 'partial not-spots,' the project aims to ensure a more consistent and comprehensive network experience for users, promoting connectivity for all.
Improving connectivity in these areas has wide-ranging benefits. It supports economic growth by enabling businesses to leverage digital technologies, fosters social inclusion by providing equal access to digital services, and enhances emergency response capabilities by ensuring reliable communication networks. By bridging these connectivity gaps, the project contributes to socio-economic development and resilience in underserved communities, ultimately fostering a more connected and empowered society.
SRN Challenges
Notably, EE completed the first phase in January, making it the first operator to do so. However, given their status as the largest operator in the country, they were able to meet the deadline by upgrading existing sites. In contrast, competitors are facing the challenge of constructing new sites from the ground up.
The concluding phase of the project, slated for completion in 2027, will focus on erecting shared masts. These masts will serve to extend 4G coverage to regions currently lacking connectivity.
