A significant stride in digital inclusion has been made as a new 4G mast, strategically located near Hawes, has been activated, revolutionizing mobile connectivity for remote communities across North Yorkshire. This pivotal development marks a new era for rural connectivity in previously underserved areas, bridging the persistent digital divide that has long challenged residents and visitors alike.
This vital infrastructure upgrade is a cornerstone of the UK Government’s ambitious Shared Rural Network (SRN) scheme, designed explicitly to extend robust 4G coverage to the nation’s most isolated regions. The initiative ensures that all four major mobile network operators—EE, Three, VMO2, and Vodafone—can provide seamless service in locations where connectivity was once sporadic or non-existent.
The newly operational mast is particularly transformative for villages immediately surrounding Hawes, including Hardraw, Appersett, Snaizeholme, and Sedbusk. These communities, often characterized by challenging terrains and limited existing infrastructure, now benefit from significantly improved mobile signals, enhancing daily life and supporting local economic activities.
Ben Roome, Chief Executive of Mova, expressed immense satisfaction regarding the activation, stating, “I am delighted that locals and visitors can celebrate Yorkshire Day with enhanced outdoor 4G mobile connectivity from all of the mobile network operators for the first time.” His remarks underscore the immediate positive impact on residents and the tourism sector within this picturesque region.
Launched in 2020, the SRN programme represents an unprecedented partnership between the UK Government and the nation’s leading mobile network operators. Its primary objective is to systematically eliminate mobile “not-spots,” effectively extending comprehensive 4G access to areas that have historically suffered from inadequate or zero coverage.
Within Yorkshire specifically, the programme has already yielded substantial results, dramatically improving 4G coverage across vast swathes of the North York Moors National Park and its surrounding communities. The strategic deployment of this telecoms infrastructure now extends high-speed mobile access across more than 494,000 meters of roads throughout the region, facilitating safer travel and broader access to digital services.
UK Minister for Telecoms, Chris Bryant MP, highlighted the broader societal implications, remarking, “Visitors to the Dales this Yorkshire Day will now enjoy better mobile signal thanks to the Government’s continued drive to boost connectivity in rural areas.” He further emphasized how this improved digital infrastructure empowers walkers, supports local businesses, and enables emergency services to respond more effectively.
A key aspect of these upgrades is their sustainable implementation; rather than constructing entirely new infrastructure, the enhancements have been delivered through significant improvements to existing masts that previously only served EE customers and emergency calls. This approach minimizes environmental impact while maximizing the efficiency of infrastructure deployment.
On a national scale, the Shared Rural Network has successfully expanded comprehensive 4G coverage from all four operators to an additional 34,000 square kilometres. This expansive reach now encompasses 280,000 premises and a remarkable 16,000 kilometres of roads, demonstrating a nationwide commitment to ensuring equitable access to modern mobile communication for every corner of the UK.
