The Daily Mail reports that O2 is working to eradicate mobile signal rural 'not-spots' by extending 4G coverage in 91,000 areas across the UK - including 400 tourist destinations

O2 says it wanted to ensure people would have adequate coverage as the country prepared for a 'staycation boom' from July 4th - as COVID-19 lockdown measures are eased and tourism firms are allowed to re-open. A number of National Trust and English Heritage sites have been included in the 4G signal boost. O2 says as well as helping holidaymakers stay connected and up to date with the latest news even when 'off the beaten track', it will also help local businesses. Rural connectivity and fixing 'not-spots' in less populated areas is a big issue and comes as part of Government measures to improve national connectivity.

Meanwhile, the Bognor Regis Observer also reports that residents and small and medium-sized businesses in rural areas of West Sussex can now benefit from the fastest and most reliable broadband connectivity. The improvement is due to a collaboration between the county’s local authorities making more money available to pay for gigabit-capable broadband connectivity through the Government’s Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme. Rural eligible premises can now claim up to £4,000 each towards the installation cost of gigabit-capable broadband, when part of a group of premises. The paper writes that this next-generation connectivity has the potential to revolutionise rural communities, making them more attractive places to live, giving people the freedom to live and work more flexibly and helping develop thriving digital economies.

Full articles:

The Daily Mail - O2 extends 4G mobile coverage in rural communities including almost 400 tourist hotspots ahead of 'staycation summer'