The Shared Rural Network (SRN), a groundbreaking initiative, is transforming connectivity in rural Wales. Recently, 30 government-funded mast upgrades have gone live, marking a significant milestone for this UK government and mobile network operators’ joint endeavour to boost mobile coverage in underserved rural regions.
These 4G network upgrades are more than just a technological improvement; they are a lifeline for numerous rural communities. Now, towns and villages such as Llangernyw, Pandy Tudur, and Gwytherin enjoy enhanced mobile connectivity. This advancement is crucial not only for local businesses seeking reliable communication channels but also for residents and community organizations in historically disconnected areas.
National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Wales also benefit from these upgrades. With improved connectivity, areas like Bannau Brycheiniog National Park and Eryri National Park are now seamlessly connected. Additionally, the upgrades cover over 2,500 km of roads, allowing safer journeys due to more reliable network connections.
Previously, masts in many rural areas only served EE customers and emergency service calls. Thanks to the SRN upgrades, these masts now connect customers of all four major mobile network operators: EE, Vodafone, Virgin Media O2, and Three. This development marks a substantive step in narrowing the digital divide between urban and rural communities, facilitating equal access to mobile services.
Ben Roome, CEO of Mova, stressed the importance of this achievement. “Thirty new EAS masts are now live in the Welsh hills. Signals from every mobile network are threading through valleys and reaching a further 2,500 kilometres of road—bringing connectivity to residents, businesses, and anyone passing through. Thanks to the Shared Rural Network, not-spots are shrinking, connections are growing, and more coverage is on its way.”
Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, highlighted the broader implications, stating, “Funded by UK Government investment, 30 new sites in Wales now have fast and reliable mobile internet access in areas which were previously poorly served. Reliable connectivity improves every aspect of day-to-day life in rural Wales and makes a huge difference for local businesses, residents, and visitors.”
