The Shared Rural Network Explained

The Shared Rural Network (SRN) is a collaborative initiative between the UK Government, mobile network operators, and local authorities aimed at extending mobile coverage to rural areas. This ambitious project is designed to ensure that even the most remote communities have access to reliable mobile and broadband services, bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth.

The SRN has been making significant strides to improve digital connectivity, which is positively impacting rural communities across the Swansea Bay City Deal region.

Deploying advanced 4G and 5G-ready infrastructure is ensuring that rural areas receive the same high-quality mobile coverage as urban centres, supporting local businesses, enhancing public services, and providing residents with better access to digital resources.

This collaborative approach not only ensures that everyone’s best interests are represented, but also creates an easier platform to implement shared infrastructure that minimises the impact to the environment with less masts being needed.

 Julian Shariff, Head of Property & Estates at Cornerstone, said, “Partnering with mobile network operators and local planning authorities allows us to take a highly tailored approach to each region’s unique needs. By deeply understanding the landscape and the community's specific requirements, we ensure that our infrastructure solutions are not only responsive but also respectful of the local environment. This community-first approach allows us to deliver connectivity that truly serves and supports the people living and working in these areas, fostering long-term benefits for everyone involved.”

The rigorous planning process that new mast builds are subject to follow strict Welsh Government guidelines that ensures everyone’s voices are heard.  Through a consultation process, members of the public are able to respond to applications and have their opinions included in the overall decision-making process.  Making it a balanced approach that considers all the factors of any new mast build.

James Waring, Government Manager at Vodafone UK said:

As the Nation’s Network, we remain committed to ensuring rural communities and locations across the UK enjoy the same levels of connectivity as their rural counterparts.   We were early adopters of the Shared Rural Network programme and continue to work with the Government and local organisations such Carmarthenshire County Council to deliver the programme, ensuring our customers living, working and visiting our beautiful countryside have the coverage they rely on and deserve.”

Cllr. Hazel Evans, Carmarthenshire County Council said:

The Shared Rural Network is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration. It’s helping to build a more connected region, ensuring that everyone can benefit from having better digital connectivity, whist carefully considering ways to minimise the environmental impact of new mast builds.

Improving the digital infrastructure in rural areas with help attract new businesses and investment to the region and will ensure that those communities are not left behind and it’s understanding the needs of everyone involved that makes this process a fully inclusive one.”

For more information about the Shared Rural Network, please visit their website and for more information on how it’s impacting your area, speak to your local Digital Champion.