BT and OneWeb have successfully delivered high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity to Lundy Island in North Devon, a major step forward in extending reliable broadband to remote communities.
Located 19 kilometres off the North Devon coast, Lundy Island has long faced limited internet access. The partnership between BT and OneWeb introduces advanced satellite technology to close the digital gap for isolated locations like Lundy, enabling modern services and clearer communication with the mainland.
Rosemary Ellis, Warden of Lundy Island, described the practical benefits:
“The connectivity provided by BT and OneWeb is already delivering fantastic benefits, speeding up frustrating jobs that used to take hours.
For example, I was able to upload an hour-long talk on our conservation success stories in just a few minutes, when it had previously failed to send multiple times. This frees me up to get out of the office to focus on surveying our wildlife, and I can much more easily engage with researchers and students.
As a resident of the island, Coastguard Rescue officer and Community First Responder, it also gives me peace of mind that if we need any mainland medical advice, we can easily video call from the village.”
The connection is enabled by an Intellian dual parabolic terminal installed outdoors on the island. This antenna links to OneWeb’s constellation of more than 630 Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, which operate roughly 1,200 kilometres above Earth.
LEO satellites deliver high throughput and low latency, even in remote locations. An indoor satellite modem on Lundy provides two-way data connectivity, completing the communications chain for residents, businesses and services.
Data flows from the User Terminal (UT) on Lundy to OneWeb’s Satellite Network Portal (SNP) via the LEO satellites. From the SNP, traffic is backhauled across OneWeb’s Wide Area Network to one of BT’s points of presence (PoP) in London. There it is routed into the internet or into BT’s 21C core network, ensuring reliable routing and internet access for local users.
Greg McCall, Chief Networks Officer at BT Group, commented:
“It’s brilliant to be bringing high-speed, low-latency connectivity to Lundy Island in partnership with OneWeb and DSIT.
The installation will not only have a transformative impact on the island and its residents but is also a significant milestone in demonstrating the value of satellite communications and the crucial role such solutions will play in enabling digital connectivity across the entirety of the UK and beyond.”
The satellite connection benefits Lundy’s small permanent population—around 28 residents—as well as the island’s services and conservation projects. Reliable connectivity improves everyday operations from payment systems in the local tavern and shop to research and conservation initiatives within the UK’s first Marine Conservation Zone, designated in 2010.
Sir John Whittingdale MP, Minister for Data and Digital Infrastructure, said:
“This is yet another example of brilliant British ingenuity being brought to bear on our commitment to deliver a digital revolution in all parts of the country.
Our Alpha Trials programme is bringing high-speed connectivity to some of our hardest-to-reach places, from Papa Stour in the Shetland Islands to Lundy.
Working with OneWeb and BT, the island will now have access to high-speed, reliable connectivity delivered by satellite which will not only unlock new opportunities for residents but also support ongoing conservation efforts.”
Beyond Lundy, OneWeb’s LEO constellation forms a key element of BT’s plan to extend high-speed connectivity across the UK by 2028. The strategy covers ultra-remote communities and a variety of use cases including eco-tourism, search and rescue, and temporary events such as festivals.
BT and OneWeb are also investigating ways to boost mobile services via satellite. A recent live field trial successfully transmitted 4G data over an LEO satellite link, demonstrating potential for improved mobile coverage in remote areas.
Stephen Beynon, Chief Commercial Officer at OneWeb, added:
“We are excited to be working with BT and DSIT across Lundy Island, as we deliver consistent and stable connectivity to its community.
This project illustrates the importance of collaboration between OneWeb and its partners, to maximise the benefits of LEO solutions for rural and hard-to-reach areas.”
LEO satellite technology has the potential to transform connectivity for remote communities in the UK and worldwide. Continued collaboration between private companies and government programmes will help extend practical, reliable internet access to underserved areas, supporting local economies, public services and conservation work.
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