22 February 2024 , 10:56
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A report from the National Audit Office (NAO) has warned that the Government's plans to extend 4G mobile connectivity in rural areas are falling behind schedule.
The Shared Rural Network programme, funded by the Government and the country's biggest mobile operators, aims to bring 95% 4G mobile coverage across the UK landmass by 2025. However, so far only one network has met its interim coverage target, and there are doubts about whether the 95% target will be achieved on time.
The scheme involves mobile operators sharing infrastructure to boost mobile signal in rural areas. The report recognised that the rollout has been slowed down by the Covid-19 pandemic, opposition from local campaign groups, and local authorities' capacity to handle planning applications.
It also noted that the Government and mobile operators had taken longer than expected to finalise mast locations and agree on other site details. The NAO report also warned that estimated costs have increased, suggesting that these additional pressures may prevent operators from delivering the required level of coverage within the current funding.
Despite these challenges, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) business case suggests the scheme will deliver economic benefits of more than £1.35 billion by supporting business and tourism in rural areas. The National Audit Office (NAO) has said the government needs to show how extending mobile coverage to remote areas is worth it. They want better checks on mobile companies to make sure they give good 4G in the countryside.
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Gareth Davies, who leads the NAO, said: "Demand for mobile data access is expected to increase as>