A joint project to improve mobile connectivity in the East Coast Main Line tunnels will be launched later this year.
Government-owned LNER is working with Network Rail and UK mobile network operators to install new mobile infrastructure inside the Gasworks and Copenhagen tunnels, near London's King's Cross station.
A custom antenna has been installed in the tunnels, meaning that from the end of this year “most customers will be able to maintain direct voice and data access to their mobile provider, keeping their calls connected and meetings online. when they approach and leave the capital.”
The tunnels will be the first on the country's operational railway to be equipped with this technology, with testing taking place at the Network Rail Innovation and Development Center between Network Rail and the telephone companies before their introduction into the network.
Commenting on the news, James Downey, LNER's chief financial officer, said:
“Our customers have told us that a reliable Wi-Fi and mobile connection is a key consideration when making decisions about traveling by train, and many expect the connection on the train to be as strong as at home.
“This section of our route is a popular place for customers to make calls or send messages, as they approach London King's Cross or simply settle into their seat to begin their journey north.
“Those calls, messages and meetings will now benefit from an improved, more reliable signal, meaning our customers will be able to stay better connected.”
The project follows Transport for London's ongoing work to roll out high-speed mobile coverage across the London Underground, with the first phase of works on the Elizabeth line having recently completed.
TfL aims for 80 per cent of the Metro network to have mobile coverage by the end of 2024.
Mobile coverage activated at four stations on the Elizabeth line
lner.co.uk, networkrail.co.uk
