Mobile network operator O2 (Virgin Media) has harnessed a Starlink based LEO satellite broadband connection for backhaul capacity in order to successfully expand their 4G mobile coverage across the remote rural Northumberland (England) village of Craster, which they say “previously had no coverage from any mobile operator“; 5G and fibre will follow.
In case anybody has forgotten, O2 have spent the past couple of years conducting various trials of satellite-based backhaul solutions to help connect remote mobile sites (examples here and here). But the latest deployment marks one of the first times this has been deployed as part of a commercial roll-out.
The new mast, which is being supported by the Atlas Tower Group, will provide reliable mobile signal to the whole of Craster on the coast, which is an important tourist destination attracting more than 250,000 visitors every year. Dunstanburgh Castle, the nearby National Trust site, is also set to benefit, with the connectivity set to improve the experience for visitors.
Steven Verigotta, Director of Mobile Delivery at VMO2, said:
“As part of our commitment to improving rural connectivity, we’re using innovative satellite connectivity to bring mobile coverage to Craster for the first time. Our investment to deliver reliable connectivity in this beautiful area will be a boon for the many visitors that come here each year, transforming their experience and improving opportunities for local businesses and residents.”
The remote area does not currently have access to any fibre optic broadband networks, which are typically used to carry mobile traffic to and from their mast sites. But that is due to change “later this year” when new fibre lines are installed into the area and plans are already in place to upgrade the mast, at which point O2 plans to bring their fastest 5G based mobile broadband to Craster and the surrounding areas.