One of the major telcos has finished significant upgrades to improve mobile internet coverage along the Hunter Valley’s major highway corridors.
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Optus announced on Tuesday it had completed the first stage of the $6.5 million project to improve 3G and 4G service, with new facilities at Weston, Jerrys Plains, Mount Thorley, Millfield, Singleton CBD, Singleton North, Scone Racecourse, Muswellbrook CBD and Muswellbrook South.
The company is focusing on service along the New England Highway and Golden Highway corridors, with upgrades to existing equipment also taking place at Pokolbin, Branxton and Denman.
Optus network manager, Vin Mullins said the investment was great news for residents, businesses and visitors to the Hunter.
“The completion of the first stage will deliver the significant coverage and service improvements residents and businesses have been waiting for,” he said.
“We’re committed to improving coverage in the Hunter. In the past 12 months we have invested more than $5 million to build 10 new sites and upgrade 14 existing sites so customers can enjoy faster and more reliable coverage.
“This is great news for local customers and visitors to the region, who like to stream music, browse the web and video chat with friends on their compatible device.
“This work has provided a significant boost for local coverage, including improved indoor coverage and performance whilst also providing greater stability to the Optus Network,” Mr Mullins said.
Work has started on the $1.5 million second stage to identify sites that will boost coverage and capacity in Branxton, Aberdeen and along the New England Highway.
“Reliable telecommunications services are vital to a number of local sectors including agribusiness, resources and tourism,” Mr Mullins said.
“Our investment demonstrates our commitment to providing real choice and competition for business and industry in the Hunter.”