Vodafone tackles Rural “Not Spots”

Vodafone is launching a national campaign to tackle rural areas of poor signal known as “not spots” in a bid to provide long awaited network services to up to one million people. Providing network services in remote or rural areas has always proved difficult, often due to the geography or local planning permissions/opposition. After a successful trial of Open Sure Signal Technology across 12 rural communities however, Vodafone has opened applications offering the innovative technology to a further 100 communities in the UK.

Utilising ‘femtocell’ technology, where existing broadband lines are used to connect to the service providers network, the mobile giant is now able to provide 3G signal in these areas. In addition to providing voice and SMS services it will also provide mobile internet services. Jeroen Hoencamp, Vodafone UK Chief Executive, highlighted “Bringing mobile coverage and mobile internet to rural areas gives communities a real boost – both economically and socially.” This sentiment is backed by the recent Ofcom report that half the population accesses the internet on their phone.

The innovative technology is being rolled out in conjunction with a £1billion of Vodafone investment in the network and its services across the country.

Communities will need to apply together with their local MP to for the installation of the Open Sure Signal Technology, before the 14th October 2014. For more information on the programme and how to apply visit www.vodafone.co.uk/rural .

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