Islands set to receive multimillion-pound upgrade to 5G networks

£48m pledged to build “advanced mobile network” across Channel Islands and Isle of Man

Telecoms operator Sure by Beyon has announced plans to invest £48 million in creating what it calls an “advanced mobile network” as part of a wider £100 million infrastructure programme across the Channel Islands and Isle of Man.

The five-year investment aims to transform connectivity in the islands, with nearly half of the total funding allocated to delivering full 5G coverage. The company has selected Ericsson as its strategic technology partner to support the network upgrades and expansion.

Alistair Beak, chief executive of Sure, said the partnership would accelerate delivery of a “future-ready” communications network.

“We said we would deliver a new £48m mobile network quickly — one that brings 5G, faster speeds and better coverage — and we are sticking to that promise,” he said. “We are excited to announce Ericsson as our partner, and we are making good progress so that we can launch new services in 2026.”

Local leaders welcomed the investment as a sign of growing confidence in the islands’ digital economies.

Sasha Kazantseva-Miller, president of Guernsey’s Committee for Economic Development, described the announcement as a boost for residents and businesses alike.

“This is about empowering people, businesses, and public services with the connectivity needed to unlock innovation, support education, and enable the AI-driven technologies that will shape a smarter, more inclusive future,” she said.

The company is also expanding its retail presence, opening a new store in St Helier on the corner of Castle Street and Charing Cross.

Deputy Kirsten Morel, Jersey’s Minister for Sustainable Economic Development, said the investment represented a “welcome vote of confidence” in the island.

“Hearing about Sure’s ambitious plans reinforces that Jersey remains a centre for investment and innovation, and Sure’s commitment is to be celebrated,” he said.