In a significant stride towards enhancing connectivity in rural areas, Virgin Media O2 has successfully deployed 150 Shared Rural Network (SRN) sites across the UK. This initiative is part of the company’s commitment to providing robust and reliable mobile coverage in traditionally underserved regions.
The Shared Rural Network is a government-backed programme aimed at improving mobile coverage in rural parts of the UK. By collaborating with other major mobile network operators, Virgin Media O2 is working to extend coverage to 95% of the UK’s landmass by the end of 2025.
Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2, expressed the company’s dedication to the cause. “Reaching this milestone is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their location, can benefit from reliable mobile connectivity. Our investment in the Shared Rural Network will help bridge the digital divide, ensuring rural communities are not left behind.”
The deployment of these 150 sites marks a significant step forward, providing much-needed connectivity to remote areas. It is expected to benefit thousands of people living in rural communities, offering them better access to digital services and communication tools.
In addition to the SRN initiative, Virgin Media O2 has also been investing heavily in its own network infrastructure. The company has pledged to spend £10 billion over the next five years to further enhance its network capabilities, ensuring that both urban and rural areas benefit from improved connectivity.
The success of the SRN project thus far has been met with positive feedback from various stakeholders. A government spokesperson commented, “The Shared Rural Network is a crucial part of our plan to level up digital infrastructure across the UK. The deployment of these sites by Virgin Media O2 is a significant achievement and will make a real difference to people living in rural areas.”
Looking ahead, Virgin Media O2 plans to continue its efforts to improve rural connectivity. The company is focused on deploying more sites in the coming years, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that no community is left behind in the digital age.
For those living in rural areas, the deployment of these SRN sites brings hope for a more connected future. As digital services become increasingly integral to daily life, the importance of reliable mobile coverage cannot be overstated. Virgin Media O2’s commitment to this cause is a promising step towards achieving nationwide connectivity.
This major milestone not only highlights Virgin Media O2’s dedication to enhancing rural connectivity but also sets a benchmark for other network operators to follow. With continued investment and collaboration, the goal of comprehensive mobile coverage across the UK is well within reach.
