The UK government is reportedly planning to reduce the scope of its £1 billion Shared Rural Network (SRN) project, which was designed to eliminate mobile signal “not-spots” in remote areas. According to a report by The Telegraph, officials are discussing scaling back the second phase of the initiative, cutting the number of new mobile masts from 260 to just 60.
A spokesperson for the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology refuted claims that this indicated a lack of commitment to rural connectivity. They stated that mobile operators had previously suggested they could achieve the project’s goals with fewer masts, reducing costs and minimising the visual impact on landscapes.
Since its launch in 2020, the SRN has already facilitated hundreds of mobile mast upgrades, extending 4G coverage to over 95% of the UK. Recently, 30 additional mast upgrades went live across the UK, with 21 in Wales, five in Scotland, and four in England. Rural areas, including North York Moors National Park, have benefited from these upgrades, improving connectivity for residents, businesses, and tourists.
Rather than building new masts, many upgrades have improved existing infrastructure. Previously, these masts only served EE customers and emergency calls. Now, they provide reliable 4G access for all four major network providers: EE, Three, Virgin Media O2, and Vodafone. This expansion is closing the digital divide between urban and rural areas while boosting economic opportunities and supporting emergency services.
The government’s decision to scale back the second phase of the SRN is raising concerns among mobile operators. The second phase was intended to eliminate “total not-spots,” areas with no coverage at all, using £500 million in public funding. Industry insiders believe the government may be redirecting these funds, possibly to improve mobile coverage on the UK’s railways.
Despite the scaled-back mast rollout, mobile operators continue to explore alternative solutions for improving coverage. Vodafone, for example, recently announced plans to launch a satellite-based service later this year. This technology, compatible with standard 4G and 5G smartphones, could help eliminate not-spots without additional infrastructure. However, companies stress that satellite technology is intended to complement, not replace, terrestrial networks.
The government remains committed to upgrading mobile networks, recognizing the importance of strong digital infrastructure for businesses, consumers, and public services. Discussions with network operators are ongoing as the next phase of the Shared Rural Network takes shape.
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