John Lamont MP has welcomed a major investment to improve connectivity across rural Scotland during a visit to an existing Virgin Media O2 mast in the Scottish Borders.
Under the Shared Rural Network (SRN) programme, new masts will be constructed in the south of Scotland and existing masts will be upgraded. These enhancements are set to transform mobile coverage for residents and businesses in the region, increase consumer choice and productivity, and ensure more reliable connections.
By June 2024, 81% of the south of Scotland is expected to have 4G coverage from all four operators, up from 55% before the SRN began. Across Scotland overall, 74% will have 4G coverage from all four operators, an increase from 44% previously.
Lamont, the Member of Parliament for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk, recently visited a mast in Denholm in his constituency to see the upgrades firsthand. The mast was originally built several years ago to support 2G services and has now been upgraded to 4G, delivering faster and more dependable connectivity to meet modern needs.
Lamont said: “This significant investment in upgrading the mobile network is excellent news for people across the Scottish Borders. These new and improved masts will strengthen connectivity and help more residents and businesses access better mobile coverage.”
“The Shared Rural Network is a strong UK initiative that will make a real difference to mobile coverage for local communities and enterprises.”
Bruce Ferguson, mobile network delivery manager at Virgin Media O2, added: “We are continuing to deliver on our commitment to upgrade the UK’s digital infrastructure, investing billions of pounds to improve the services we provide—particularly in rural areas where enhancements are most needed.
“Through the Shared Rural Network we are collaborating with government and industry to close the digital divide and transform connectivity for local businesses, residents and visitors in rural locations, making it easier than ever to get online. With more sites being upgraded and new masts constructed throughout the year, communities across rural Scotland will soon experience significantly improved mobile services.”
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