O2 rolls out next-generation 5G+ network across Renfrewshire

People and businesses across Renfrewshire are expected to benefit from O2’s next-generation 5G+ network, although coverage remains inconsistent in several areas.

The operator has confirmed the region is included in its wider Scotland rollout, bringing faster speeds, improved reliability and lower latency to parts of Paisley, Johnstone, Erskine, Bishopton, Renfrew, Linwood, Houston, Bridge of Weir, Kilbarchan and Langbank.

However, real-world coverage varies significantly depending on location.

In Paisley, 5G+ coverage remains patchy overall, although Ferguslie has seen stronger availability compared to other parts of the town. Nearby areas such as Glenburn and Foxbar still show limited indoor coverage.

Johnstone and Linwood both have outdoor 5G+ availability, but indoor signal strength remains inconsistent in places.

Elderslie, which suffered a major outage last year following a storm that left some residents without signal for months, has seen improvements. The area now benefits from a strong 4G network, with 5G+ available outdoors but still patchy indoors.

In villages including Bridge of Weir, Houston, Kilbarchan and Langbank, coverage is largely outdoor-based, with indoor reliability still developing.

O2’s 5G+ network uses standalone infrastructure rather than relying on existing 4G systems, which the company says will deliver a stronger and more resilient service over time.

The rollout forms part of Virgin Media O2’s £700 million Mobile Transformation Plan aimed at boosting coverage and capacity across the UK.

Customers with compatible devices can access 5G+ at no extra cost, although some may need to update their SIM or switch to an eSIM.

Professor Robert Joyce, Director of Mobile Access Engineering at O2, said: “From the biggest cities to regional towns and rural communities, this upgrade will help people across Scotland stay connected wherever they live, work or travel.

“Combined with innovations like O2 Satellite which has connected huge areas that traditionally had no phone signal, and investment from our Mobile Transformation Plan, we’re strengthening connectivity across the country and ensuring customers get a faster, more reliable mobile experience.”

Business Minister Richard Lochhead said: “Ensuring high quality digital infrastructure is a priority for the Scottish Government and I welcome O2’s investment in improving their mobile coverage in Scotland.

“This expanded access to faster, more reliable mobile networks will benefit communities, businesses and visitors across Scotland, enhancing how they communicate, work and access digital services, regardless of location.”

“Collaboration between industry and government is vital to delivering the digital infrastructure Scotland needs, and it is encouraging to see continued investment supporting connectivity across the country.”