Big mobile network upgrade for Derbyshire
Virgin Media O2 has announced that people and businesses in 368 towns and villages across Derbyshire can now access its next-generation 5G+ network, following the latest phase of the operator’s UK-wide rollout.
More than 380,000 people in areas including Derby, Chesterfield, Long Eaton, Ilkeston and Swadlincote, and other communities across the county are set to benefit from the upgrade, it said. It added that 5G+ will deliver faster speeds, better reliability and lower latency at no extra cost.
O2’s 5G+ network is available to customers with compatible devices at no extra cost. Unlike earlier versions of 5G, which relied on existing 4G technology, O2’s 5G+ service uses new “standalone” infrastructure to deliver faster speeds and lower latency mobile services.
The network noted that these upgrades form part of its £700 million Mobile Transformation Plan, which is delivering a major upgrade to the company’s network throughout 2026.
The investment will enhance reliability, capacity and coverage across the country through new masts, small cells, 4G and 5G upgrades, automation and new spectrum deployment.
“From Bakewell becoming our 500th 5G+ location last year to supporting Derbyshire firefighters with O2 Satellite during a major wildfire earlier this year, we’re continuing to invest in better connectivity across the county,” said Professor Robert Joyce, Director of Mobile Access Engineering at O2.
“This latest rollout builds on our continued investment in Derbyshire, bringing faster speeds, improved reliability and lower latency to residents and businesses alike. Through our £700 million Mobile Transformation Plan, we’re pleased to bring the benefits of our next-generation network to more customers, helping them stay connected whenever they need to.”
