Farmers challenge government claims of better mobile signals

The UK government is claiming success in its drive to improve mobile phone coverage in rural areas, including in 10 national parks across England, Scotland and Wales. 

The upgrades are part of the Shared Rural Network, a partnership between the UK government and mobile network operators.

Under the UK government-funded work, 105 masts have been upgraded, including 44 in Wales, 33 in Scotland and 28 in England, providing coverage to more than 400 businesses.

See also: Broadband and mobile coverage still inadequate in rural areas

The upgrades ensure 4G coverage from all mobile network operators for the first time.

Telecoms minister Liz Lloyd said:  “Whether you’re in the Welsh valleys, the Scottish Highlands, or England’s national parks – rural communities are finally getting the connections they deserve, boosting opportunity and growth as we drive forward plans for national renewal.”

But while the programme is said to have reached its target of delivering coverage to 95% of the UK landmass a year ahead of schedule, farming groups say gaps continue to trouble rural businesses.

Country Land and Business Association president Gavin Lane said: “Reliable mobile coverage is vital for rural economic growth, so we welcome the upgrading of masts.

“But many parts of the countryside remain in the digital wilderness, impacting businesses and communities. More work needs to be done to close the urban-rural connectivity divide.”

He added that to do this the relationship between site providers and operators has to be based on co-operation and a mutual understanding.

NFU vice-president Rachel Hallos said: “Although this latest push to upgrade mobile phone masts will make a real difference, we must remember those landowners who host mobile phone masts on farm.

“It’s important that they are fully consulted and fairly and sufficiently compensated.” 

She added that poor connectivity has continued to hold back the “full potential” of British farming. 

“Rural businesses, families and communities deserve the same opportunities as everyone else – and that starts with being properly connected,” she said.

Gaps remain

Despite the increase in coverage, rural groups say gaps remain, and momentum must be maintained.

Farmers’ Union of Wales rural affairs committee chairman Alan Gardner said: “Reliable coverage is essential for modern farming, safety and rural businesses, and while progress is being made, pockets of no signal remain, making it important that work continues.”

An NFU Scotland spokesman added: “There are still significant gaps in coverage for many of our most remote areas, and these must be addressed so that all farmers and crofters can benefit from consistent, high-quality connectivity.”