• O2 has switched on its next-generation 5G Standalone network in Norfolk as part of its UK-wide rollout which is now live in more than 500 locations
  • The investment is part of the operator’s £700 million Mobile Transformation Plan to boost connectivity and reliability across the UK
  • Residents and businesses in Norfolk can now enjoy faster speeds, improved coverage and reduced latency – with at least 90% outdoor 5G Standalone coverage in the area

Norfolk, 26 November 2025 – People and businesses across Norfolk, including Norwich, Great Yarmouth, Kings Lynn and Thetford, are now set to benefit from O2’s most advanced mobile network yet, as the company switches on its next-generation 5G Standalone service locally.

With a population of around 940,000 across Norfolk, residents in these areas will be able to benefit from the new 5G network, which offers reliable, faster mobile coverage and stronger signal in more places, meaning a smoother experience for residents, commuters and visitors.

O2’s 5G Standalone network is the UK’s largest and is available to customers with compatible devices at no extra cost.

Future-proofing Norfolk in a boost for local people and businesses

With 90% outdoor 5G Standalone coverage across Norfolk, the rollout is expected to benefit local residents and businesses alike. From remote working and video calls to streaming and online learning, the upgraded network will make it easier for people to stay connected wherever they are.

Unlike earlier versions of 5G that relied on 4G technology, O2’s 5G Standalone service is built entirely on new infrastructure. This investment will improve services today and prepare the region for future technologies like smart transport, connected healthcare, and advanced manufacturing.

Professor Robert Joyce, Director of Mobile Access Engineering at O2, said: “We are investing £2m every single day to improve our mobile network and provide a more reliable experience for our customers. By expanding our 5G Standalone network to Norfolk we are upgrading services for local people and are excited about the opportunities the new network will bring. This customer-centric rollout is about futureproofing our network and will pave the way for exciting customer led innovations that lie ahead.”

These upgrades are part of Virgin Media O2’s Mobile Transformation Plan, which will see the operator invest approximately £700m this year to future-proof its mobile network. The plan is focused on expanding 4G and 5G coverage, a dedicated small cells rollout to boost capacity in dense urban areas, and innovative solutions to address persistent network pain points including along railway lines, at airports, on motorways, and in stadiums and arenas.

Ends

Notes to editors

All 500 towns and cities included in Virgin Media O2’s 5GSA programme rollout have at least 90% 5G standalone outdoor coverage.

Journalists can contact the Virgin Media O2 press office on:
press@virginmediao2.co.uk 01753 565656
Virgin Media
press enquiries
press@virginmedia.co.uk
O2
press enquiries
pressoffice@o2.com