08.04.2024 The first of 86 planned 4G masts in Wales, went live in March, with the first of these masts being located across both Ceredigion and Powys. Further masts are expected to be switched on in the coming months.
These initial masts will bring about improved coverage and capacity of the existing mobile networks and will see benefits to residents, tourists, and business owners in areas such as Pont-rhyd-y-groes, Ysbyty Ystwyth, LLanafan, Tynygraig, West Fedw and Trawsgoed.[1]
The rollout comes as part of the Shared Rural Network programme, a £1 billion plan led by the UK government and telecoms companies, which both Local Authorities, Ceredigion County Council and Powys County Council, and Growing Mid Wales (GMW) have provided their support to, that seeks to close the digital divide and spur economic growth in rural areas of the UK by boosting mobile connectivity.
These initial enhancements have been carried out by upgrading existing network infrastructure, avoiding the visual impact sometimes associated with new mast construction. While future developments may focus on expanded coverage with the possible need for new masts, the current emphasis is to improve the existing network.
Following the recent upgrades, many residents, businesses, and tourists in the areas mentioned now have increased choice in selecting a suitable network provider as they will be able to access a 4G signal from all four major mobile network operators - EE, VMO2, Three, and Vodafone. Additionally, options extend to various Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), which provide services using the networks of these major operators. This enhancement in network infrastructure broadens connectivity options across the region and for those experiencing poor broadband may also provide an opportunity to make use of 4G broadband solutions.
In addition to the aforementioned areas, a further two 4G masts are known to be switched on in the coming months in the villages of Esgair Maen and Bronfelin, as the delivery of the Shared Rural Network programme ramps up.[2]
The switch on in Wales marks a further milestone in the joint £1 billion deal between UK Government and industry, which is expected to see mobile coverage from at least one provider in Mid Wales increase from 86% to 97% and coverage from all mobile operators increase from 51% to 78%.[3]
GMW will continue to support the programme wherever possible. The projects progressing through the Mid Wales Growth Deal Digital Programme are designed to complement the efforts of the Shared Rural Network, enhancing the overall impact of the work being conducted.
[1] UK government's 4G rollout signals end of mobile blackspots in rural Wales - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
[2] UK government's 4G rollout signals end of mobile blackspots in rural Wales - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
[3] Forecast coverage improvements - Shared Rural Network (srn.org.uk)
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