Project REACH Aims to Eliminate Mobile Dead Zones on UK Rail Network

The UK government has launched an ambitious £108 million initiative called Project REACH (RailwayEnhanced Connectivity and Harnessing) to bring uninterrupted mobile coverage to the nation’s rail passengers.

"It’s unacceptable in this day and age for rail travelers to lose mobile signal while trying to work, stream content, or stay connected with loved ones," said Transport Secretary Mark Harper. "Project REACH will make dropped calls and internet dead zones a thing of the past."

Closing Coverage Gaps

Currently, only 82% of rail routes in the UK have consistent mobile coverage, according to industry regulator Ofcom. Project REACH aims to boost that figure to 100% within the next 5 years.

The government is partnering with the country’s four major mobile network operators – EE, O2, Three and Vodafone – to deploy 5G infrastructure along an initial 1,250 km of track. This will include busy routes like London-Manchester and Edinburgh-Glasgow.

"We’re excited to work with the government to bring seamless connectivity to rail passengers," said Lutz Schüler, CEO of Virgin Media O2. "This investment will allow people to work, stream, and scroll without interruption, even in tunnels and remote areas."

Boosting Productivity and Passenger Experience

A recent survey by the Transport Focus watchdog found that 69% of business travelers cite the ability to work on the train as a top priority. Reliable mobile coverage could boost productivity by up to £445 million per year, estimates the Department for Transport.

"As someone who frequently travels for work, there’s nothing more frustrating than having an important call drop or email fail to send because of spotty mobile signal," said Manchester-based consultant Sarah Thompson, 37. "This upgrade is long overdue and will make a huge difference."

Project REACH also aims to enhance leisure travel, allowing passengers to stream music and videos, play online games, and stay connected on social media without interruption. The initiative is projected to increase rail passenger journeys by 5-7% over the next decade.

Collaborating to Overcome Challenges

Deploying mobile infrastructure along rail corridors presents unique technical challenges, from navigating complex terrain to integrating with existing railway systems. Project REACH will draw on a combination of trackside masts, small cells, and specialized onboard equipment to provide seamless coverage.

The government is working closely with Network Rail, train operating companies, and telecom providers to minimize disruption to rail services during the rollout. Much of the installation work will take place overnight when trains aren’t running.

"We’re using state-of-the-art technology and innovative deployment methods to bring connectivity to even the most challenging parts of the network," explained Vodafone UK CTO Scott Petty. "This is a complex undertaking, but one that will deliver real benefits to passengers and the economy."

Looking Ahead

Project REACH is part of the government’s broader £1 billion Digital Railways strategy, which aims to leverage technology to improve efficiency, safety, and customer experience across the rail network.

Future plans include deploying sensors and AI to predict and prevent maintenance issues, using digital signaling to boost capacity, and providing real-time travel information to passengers.

As the first trains with uninterrupted 5G coverage roll out later this year, UK rail passengers can look forward to a more productive, entertaining, and connected travel experience. Project REACH is ushering in a new era of mobile connectivity on the rails.