Virgin Media O2 has announced plans to invest approximately GBP 700 million this year—around GBP 2 million per day—to enhance its mobile network infrastructure in an effort to improve speed, coverage, and reliability across the UK.
The investment forms part of the company’s Mobile Transformation Plan, designed to meet growing demand for mobile connectivity, which has more than doubled in the past five years.
The initiative will focus on expanding 4G and 5G coverage, particularly in rural and coastal regions where network ‘not-spots’ persist. The company will also deploy small cells in dense urban areas to increase capacity and minimize congestion, while major transport routes such as railways, motorways, and airports will see targeted infrastructure upgrades. Virgin Media O2 will also introduce distributed antenna systems (DAS) in stadiums and venues to ensure consistent coverage during high-demand events.
The operator plans to integrate its mobile and fixed network infrastructure by utilizing its fiber network to connect mobile sites, accelerating infrastructure deployment and enhancing network resilience. In remote areas, the company will deploy satellite technology to connect mobile towers, addressing long-standing coverage gaps.
Read More: Virgin Media O2 Unveils Advanced Converged Interconnect Network
Prioritizing High-Demand Zones
As part of the plan, Virgin Media O2 will phase out its 3G network to focus on building higher-capacity, energy-efficient networks. It will also leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize network performance and boost operational efficiency, redirecting savings toward further network improvements.
Priority investment areas include improving connectivity in high-demand zones such as train stations, major roadways, and large event venues, where customers have expressed the strongest demand for enhanced mobile services. The company aims to significantly improve network experiences in these key locations throughout 2025.
Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer, Virgin Media O2, said, “Virgin Media O2 is committed to providing our customers with a reliable connectivity experience wherever they are. Our Mobile Transformation Plan combines the necessary financial investment with the latest technological innovation to make this a reality.”
