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The railway line could improve the connectivity for thousands of rural households
The High-Speed 2 (HS2) railway project could significantly enhance broadband connectivity in rural areas, according to a new analysis released today from High Speed 2 Ltd, a non-departmental public body run by the UK Department for Transport.
As part of the railway deployment plan for HS2, mobile and broadband providers would be offered access to spare capacity in the 2,000km of fibre cabling and 80 telecoms masts being constructed alongside the railway, which will connect London and Birmingham. Telecoms companies could reportedly access these resources as early as two years before the railway opens, which is expected between 2029 and 2033.
The development could transform internet speeds for thousands of homes and businesses across 538 postcodes in rural areas, including Buckinghamshire, West Northamptonshire, Warwickshire, and Staffordshire. These regions have historically lagged behind in broadband speeds, due to the high cost of installing direct fibre connections in sparsely populated areas.
Using HS2 infrastructure, broadband providers could offer ultrafast speeds of over 100Mbit/s to underserved areas, helping address the critical gap in digital connectivity. Notably, 209 postcodes currently lack even ‘decent’ broadband speeds (speeds of least 10Mbit/s).
“Investment in our transport infrastructure can boost opportunities and drive economic growth in every part of our country. This scheme will have a positive impact on local areas for generations to come, providing connectivity that will create new opportunities for people and businesses to thrive,” said Rail Minister Lord Hendy.
In addition to improving broadband, the initiative will also enhance mobile coverage, with around 80 telecoms masts being constructed to provide signalling for trains traveling at speeds up to 360km/h. This infrastructure could also address gaps in 5G coverage, further boosting connectivity for rural communities.
“We’re [also] determined to ensure that we get the most value out of our new infrastructure and support the local community wherever possible,” said Tim Ward, HS2 Ltd’s Head of Telecoms Engineering.
“That’s why we’re keen to work with mobile and broadband providers to help unlock better 5G connectivity and faster broadband for communities in more isolated areas along the railway,” he continued.
HS2 has faced numerous challenges and delays that have slowed its progress, mainly due to the escalating costs. The London to Birmingham line is now estimated to cost £66 billion, far in excess of the projects initial projections. With the UK Treasury having recently uncovered a “£22 billion black hole” in the nation’s finances, the extent to which HS2 will be prioritised remains to be seen.
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