LNER has revealed that its project to improve mobile connectivity on the East Coast Mainline has reached an important milestone with the installation of a bespoke antenna.

The publicly-owned operator is working with Network Rail and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) on the project, putting new mobile phone infrastructure into the Gasworks and Copenhagen tunnels outside London King’s Cross station.

When completed, the project will ensure more reliable and consistent mobile phone and on-train Wi-Fi connection, and will remove the ‘not-spots’ where passengers currently lose connection when travelling through the tunnels.

The new equipment will mean that on-train connectivity will no longer rely on connection to the wider mobile communications network. Currently, a train’s antennae pick up the signal from regular masts or base stations near the tracks, and this then connects passengers via routers in carriages, meaning that the speed or connectivity to the internet will depend on the strength of the network signal and how many users are sharing the bandwidth.

The tunnels will become the first on the country’s operational railway to be fitted with this technology. Once it is operational later this year, most passengers will be able to maintain direct voice and data access to their mobile provider, which will keep their calls and online meetings connected as they approach and leave London.

LNER is funding the project, while rail connectivity and technology integration company Linbrooke will carry out the installation. The equipment has undergone rigorous testing at Network Rail’s Innovation and Development Centre, with the involvement of both Network Rail and the phone companies.

James Downey, Finance Director at LNER said, “Our customers have told us that reliable WiFi and mobile connection is a key consideration when they are making decisions about travelling by train, with many expecting the connection on the train to be as strong as home.

“This section of our route is a popular spot for customers to make calls or send messages, as they approach London King’s Cross or just get comfortable in their seat to begin their journey north. Those calls, messages and meetings will now benefit from an improved, more reliable signal, meaning our customers can stay better connected.”

Helen Cavanagh, Head of Passenger Experience for Network Rail’s East Coast route, said: “This is a fantastic example of the rail industry and mobile operators working together to improve services and experience for passengers. “This project will keep most passengers connected with family and friends on the approach to King’s Cross station, helping boost their enjoyment when travelling on the East Coast Main Line.”

Ben Lynch, Managing Director at Linbrooke Rail said “We are delighted to be part of this exciting project which will transform the passenger experience on LNER trains. Delivering new technology and rail infrastructure is at the heart of the Linbrooke business. The location and environment of this project will add to the challenge, but the collective team have made a good start on the construction phase, and I look forward to seeing this continue.”

A Virgin Media O2 spokesperson said “Virgin Media O2 is focused on improving the network experience for our customers wherever they are and closing any “not spots” that exist for them. This project will help to ensure they are able to get quality mobile coverage on the move and enable them to stay connected when leaving and approaching London King’s Cross Station.”