British telecommunications company, EE, has connected 1,600 remote UK communities to its 4G network. As a result, 77% of Scotland, 86% of Wales, 89% of Northern Ireland, and 94% of England have gained access to 4G through EE’s network.
The Shared Rural Network Initiative
These upgrades form part of the UK’s GBP 1 billion Shared Rural Network (SRN) initiative. The SRN initiative includes four of the UK’s major operators and seeks to remove areas where coverage is received from a single operator. This has required the operators to improve their network infrastructure to extend 4G coverage into these previously underserved areas.
By extending 4G coverage, the initiative enhances digital inclusion in previously underserved areas. Access to robust mobile networks is crucial for various aspects of modern life, including education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The SRN initiative’s focus on improving coverage ensures that individuals and communities in remote or neglected regions can participate more effectively in the digital landscape.
Additionally, the extended 4G coverage contributes to improved emergency services and public safety. Reliable mobile connectivity is essential during emergencies, enabling quicker response times and facilitating communication between first responders. This aspect is particularly crucial in rural areas where traditional communication infrastructure may be limited.
Moreover, the SRN initiative promotes economic development by providing businesses in these regions with more reliable and high-speed connectivity. This, in turn, fosters entrepreneurship, attracts investment, and supports the growth of local economies.
Furthermore, the initiative contributes to social cohesion by bridging the digital divide. Access to robust communication networks facilitate social interactions, online participation, and access to information, thereby promoting a more connected and informed society.
Connecting the Unconnected by 2027
The connection of 1,600 rural communities to EE’s 4G network demonstrates the operator’s completion of the first phase of the SRN initiative well ahead of the original deadline, which was originally anticipated for completion in June. The UK government will fund the second phase of the initiative, with the goal of providing 4G coverage to currently unconnected areas by 2027.
The upgrades carried out by EE as part of this first phase of the SRN initiative saw the operator extend its coverage by an additional 10,000 square kilometers.
“Even though we have met our Shared Rural Network commitments months ahead of time, we will continue to focus on enhancing mobile connectivity in areas without any existing coverage to ensure everyone— residents, tourists, local businesses and the emergency services— have the connectivity they need to thrive in the years ahead,” said Greg McCall, Chief Networks Officer, EE.
