Shared Rural Network expansion removes Islay not-spots | Computer Weekly

"Island communities have long experienced mobile coverage challenges, and addressing total not-spots is a key focus of the £1.3bn Shared Rural Network (SRN) programme. Launched in 2020, the SRN is a joint initiative between the government and the UK's mobile network operators - EE and Virgin Media O2 (VMO2), as well as Three and Vodafone before their merger - to extend 4G connectivity to 95% of the UK's landmass by the end of 2025."

"The site was built by UK mobile leader EE, and will deliver commercial coverage from all of the country's mobile operators to island residents, businesses and visitors across parts of Kilchoman, Machrie, Rockside, Aruadh, Ballinaby, Smaull, Braigo, Sanaigmore, Carnduncan, Grainel, Lyrabus, Gruinart and Craigens. It also provides new coverage to 14km of roads, paths and tracks."

"EE says this increased coverage improves safety for those travelling or working in remote areas, including seafarers and fishermen passing by and working near the island."

The Shared Rural Network (SRN) programme has deployed a 4G mast on Islay, Scotland, eliminating a significant mobile not-spot and delivering coverage from all operators to 13 communities and 14km of roads. Built by EE, the site provides reliable 4G access to key locations including Machir Bay, Saligo Bay, and Loch Gorm, improving safety for travellers, workers, seafarers and fishermen. The £1.3bn SRN initiative, launched in 2020 as a joint government and mobile operator partnership, aims to extend 4G connectivity to 95% of UK landmass by end of 2025 through shared investment in new and upgraded phone masts.

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