Avanti West Coast is investing £45 million in a deal with BT to upgrade its mobile and WiFi infrastructure for customers travelling on the West Coast Main Line.
BT will add network capacity to nearly 200 cell masts via EE, boosting its 4G coverage on the West Coast route by June 2023.
Customers connected to the onboard WiFi will be able to browse the internet, send and receive emails and make video calls “more seamlessly”.
Upgrades to the infrastructure will be made by Avanti West Coast as part of its investment into the project.
Areas that will benefit from better 4G coverage include Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, and Staffordshire as well as the regions of Lancashire, Cumbria, and Edinburgh.
Rail minister Chris Heaton-Harris said: “Avanti West Coast’s upgrade work, supported by the Department for Transport, is a win for everyone who uses, or lives close to the West Coast Main Line.
“Investing in better connectivity helps transform rail travel, improving journeys for passengers by building a black-spot free network, with the added benefit of supporting local communities.”
BT Public Sector Director Sarah Walker added: “The West Coast Main Line is one of the UK’s busiest transport routes and, as more people begin returning to offices and others travel for leisure purposes, they will enjoy an enhanced mobile service, delivering quality and reliable connectivity whilst onboard.
“Whether needing to join a call for work, listen to music or simply browse the internet, our network has been designed to ensure seamless connectivity for passengers. Not only will the investment in 4G infrastructure benefit rail users, but it will also improve connectivity in towns and villages where masts have been installed or upgraded.”