Everything Everywhere Begins New 4G Mobile Broadband Trial in Cumbria

Mobile group Everything Everywhere (Orange UK and T-Mobile) has this week begun a short trial of superfast “4G” Long Term Evolution (LTE) Mobile Broadband technology in rural Cumbria (Northern England), which centres on the area of Threlkeld near one of the Lake District’s most visited peaks.

The trial, which will make use of EE’s currently quite controversial 1800MHz band of radio spectrum, was officially switched on by both the Secretary of State for Education, Michael Gove, and local MP, Rory Stewart. Stewart famously campaigned for and won the debate that ultimately resulted in the future 4G coverage commitment being extend from 95% to 98-99% of the UK (here).

Penrith MP, Rory Stewart, said:

“This is a great day for Cumbria. The Education Secretary has listened carefully to the needs of Northern rural areas. It’s been a long path from parliamentary debates to community campaigns up and down Cumbria and we’ve still got a way to go. But I’m so proud of what Cumbrians have done to make this possible, deeply grateful that the Cabinet is so focused on Cumbria, and that great national companies like Everything Everywhere are choosing Cumbria as the location for their technology pilots. Many of the problems we face with our businesses, health, and council services are problems of distance. The latest technology allows us to jump those barriers and prove that rural areas can be national vanguards.”

Olaf Swantee, CEO of Everything Everywhere, added:

“New independent research shows that one in five households in Britain could depend on 4G for superfast broadband in the coming years. Britain deserves a 21st century digital infrastructure, and we’re committed to making that a reality for the nation as soon as possible.”

It’s understood that the trial, which is to run until the end of July 2012, will be rolling out over the next few weeks and aims to cover up to 50 local residents. The trial should also complement the groups other 4G test in Cornwall (South Newquay), which operates via the wider range 800MHz band and is due to finish by the end of June 2012.

No doubt this is also a useful way for EE to drum up a little extra political support for their 4GBritain campaign.

MAP of EE’s Cumbria 4G Trial Coverage
http://www.eeukt.com/4gtrialcumbria/img/map-cumbria3.jpg