The UK government is upgrading over 50 existing masts across Scotland, England, and Wales including in the UK’s most renowned natural parks.

The mast sites, initially only used to connect EE customers and those calling 999, have now been upgraded to provide coverage from all mobile network operators.

In Scotland, 13 mobile masts will be upgraded in some of the nation’s most rural regions, including Argyll and Bute, Ayrshire, and the South of Scotland – including parts of the Southern Upland Way.

The UK-wide mast upgrades will cover a footprint equivalent to the size of 66,470 football pitches, and over half of them are providing new coverage to areas of outstanding natural beauty or national parks.

The upgrades will benefit thousands of local residents and many more visiting the surrounding areas, bringing fast and reliable 4G networks to remote communities previously plagued by poor signal.

The rollout is part of the Shared Rural Network programme led by the UK Government and mobile network operators to improve connectivity in rural communities across Britain.

“The growth potential of our areas of outstanding natural beauty must not be stunted by patchy internet,” telecoms minister Sir Chris Bryant said.

“This milestone is a major step forward for better connectivity for all corners of the UK meaning everyone can reap the benefits of the digital age. From boosting tourism and business opportunities to providing safer outdoors experiences for visitors to our treasured countryside.”

The enhanced connectivity will bring numerous benefits to Scottish communities, from supporting local tourism and business opportunities to enabling more flexible working arrangements and improving access to essential online services.

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“This significant mobile connectivity boost, funded by the UK Government, will help people in some of Scotland’s most rural communities,” Scottish secretary Ian Murray said.

“It will support local businesses, and improve access and safety for residents and visitors alike. Improving digital connectivity – including in our most remote communities – is a key part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change – it is vital to delivering jobs and economic growth.

“And upgrading existing masts rather than building new ones, there will be minimal environmental impact in what are some of Scotland’s most scenic areas.”

The mast upgrades follow a deal between the UK government and Openreach which will bring broadband access to around 65,000 digitally isolated communities across Scotland.

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