Research by Virgin Media O2 indicates that poor internet connectivity in rural areas is prompting many residents to consider relocating to towns and cities. According to a survey conducted by Strand Partners involving 4,000 participants, approximately 4.6 million people living in the UK’s countryside are contemplating a move to urban areas within the next year, with a significant proportion being young adults aged 18-24.
The report warns of a looming “countryside crisis,” highlighting that 57% of rural inhabitants fear that the exodus of young people could render rural areas less appealing and deter business investments. This concern is largely attributed to inadequate internet services, with 48% of rural residents experiencing frequent connectivity issues and 51% reporting that these problems hinder their ability to work from home.
Furthermore, 30% of respondents disclosed that their internet connectivity is insufficient for remote work, while 16% identified access to reliable high-speed internet as a crucial factor in their decision to move to urban areas.
Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2, emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, stating, “Our research shows that poor connectivity is pushing Britain’s countryside into crisis. From deserted high streets to fewer job opportunities and issues accessing essential services, rural residents are telling us loud and clear that poor connectivity is hampering their daily lives.”
York called for swift legislative action to expedite the approval process for new communication masts, which currently takes over six months on average. She stressed the need for the government to enact the Planning and Infrastructure Bill to facilitate the industry’s efforts to enhance rural connectivity and support the Shared Rural Network project.
Virgin Media O2 claims it has made significant strides in improving rural connectivity, having built and upgraded more sites than any other operator through the Shared Rural Network initiative. However, the findings suggest that much remains to be done to prevent a mass migration from the countryside to urban centers.
