Shared Rural Network

Overview

The development of high-speed mobile networks has become an essential driver of economic growth, especially in rural areas where digital connectivity has historically lagged behind urban centers.

One of the most significant initiatives in the UK to address this gap is the Shared Rural Network (SRN). This collaborative venture between the UK government and mobile network operators has had a profound impact on improving mobile coverage in remote and underserved areas. For the Swansea Bay City Region, which includes very rural areas like Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire the SRN has been a game-changer, this uplift in 4G coverage will bring economic, social, and technological benefits to the region.

The core idea behind the SRN is to build new shared infrastructure, allowing the four mobile network operators in the UK: EE, O2, Three, and Vodafone to extend their coverage to more rural areas without the need to duplicate infrastructure or incur unnecessary costs.

The lack of robust mobile coverage in rural parts of our region has created significant challenges for businesses, residents, and visitors, particularly in sectors that rely on connectivity, such as tourism, agriculture, and remote working.

Richard Walters and Patrick Hannon, the Digital Connectivity Relationship Managers in Carmarthenshire County Council and Pembrokeshire County Council have been facilitating this programme of work in their respective counties, liaising between the mobile network operators, their planning agents and key internal departments within the Local Authority.

Carmarthenshire was the primary beneficiary of the Shared Rural Network in the Swansea Bay City Region, with 12 new masts and 19 upgraded masts enhancing connectivity for some of our most rural communities.

Following the implementation of SRN, our teams are actively collaborating with mobile network operators  and other stakeholders to continue addressing the challenges of rural connectivity. If you'd like to know more, please get in touch - digital@swanseabaycitydeal.wales.