Broadband and mobile coverage still inadequate in rural areas

Farmers and rural businesses and households continue to struggle with inadequate broadband and mobile phone signals, despite government commitments to ramp up coverage.

Latest findings from the NFU’s digital access survey show that 21% of respondents are still unable to access an internet speed of more than 10Mbps – compared to the national average of less than 1%.

Furthermore, just 33% have access to fibre broadband – significantly below the UK average of 57%.

See also: Government to invest £800m in rural broadband rollout

When it comes to phone use, only around one-fifth of respondents say they can access a reliable mobile signal across their entire farm, while almost 10% have no 4G or 5G access.

Delays

The latest figures come amid delays to key government rural connectivity targets.

The deadline for gigabit-capable broadband and nationwide 5G coverage has been pushed back from 2030 to 2032.

And while the Shared Rural Network (whereby the four main operators combine resources to improve connectivity) remains on track for completion by the end of 2025, full rollout and operator compliance is not expected until 2027.

The NFU warns these substantial waits risk leaving farming families and rural communities cut off from vital services.

NFU vice-president Rachel Hallos said: “Reliable broadband and mobile coverage are not optional.

“They are essential for running efficient, productive farming businesses and ensuring safety in some of the most isolated parts of the country.

“If a farmer can’t call for help in an emergency, the consequences can be serious.”

The continuing issue of poor rural connectivity is seen as especially concerning as the government moves ahead with plans to switch all landlines to digital by 2027.