British mobile network operator (MNO) Three UK has begun construction of the country’s first joint mast site in Scotland under the Shared Rural Network (SRN) project, ISPreview reports. It is understood that the site, which will bring 4G connectivity to customers on the Isle of Mull, will go live in early 2023.
With Three UK leading the build of this joint, customers O2 UK and Vodafone UK will be able to use it when it goes live, reflecting an earlier agreement between the three cellcos inked back in January 2021, under which the trio would construct 222 new mobile masts in rural areas, with each taking the lead on construction for 74 sites. Looking ahead, meanwhile, the MNO will reportedly next start construction on two additional sites – one in Argyll and Bute and one in Aberdeenshire – before the end of 2022, as it ramps up its programme of work in Scotland.
Iain Milligan, Chief Network Officer at Three UK, was cited as saying: ‘Mobile connectivity is absolutely critical for communities in every part of the UK, helping to support the local economy and keeping people connected with their friends and family. I am proud that Three is leading the way by delivering the first of these shared sites in the Scottish Isles where I believe it will have a transformative effect on coverage.’