The UK government has completed its first government-funded mast upgrade, in a move which it said will provide people in Scotland with significantly improved mobile connectivity.

Located in Lockerbie, the mast will boost 4G coverage in the area. The installation is part of the government’s £1 billion Shared Rural Network programme, which plans to upgrade over 120 similar masts around Scotland.

The programme, which was developed in partnership with mobile network operators including BT-owned EE, Three and Vodafone, aims to improve coverage and connectivity across the UK, especially in rural areas which have yet to experience the full benefits of digital technology.

In Scotland, coverage from all four operators will rise to a minimum of 74 per cent, up from 44 per cent. Coverage from at least one operator will increase from 81 per cent to 91 per cent by the end of the programme.

UK Government minister for Scotland John Lamont said: “A reliable phone signal is one of the biggest issues faced by our rural communities around Scotland and I am pleased the UK Government has committed £75 million to upgrade 120 masts across the country. The public and private sector are coming together to make sure people are better connected.”

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