Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team get communications upgrade
Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team (LMRT) now has the use of an existing 35m mast site, located at the base of Ben Nevis, to aid search-and-rescue operations.
LMRT and EE have worked together to deploy a single antenna and cable to the structure.
This will allow greater radio system range and more effective communications during LMRT’s search-and-rescue operations, in the hazardous destination for hiking, climbing and other outdoor activities.
Situated at Glen Nevis, it is also in a location to support LMRT’s need for shadow coverage in the Ben Nevis area – lighting up areas which previously received no coverage due to ‘shadows’ caused by the natural terrain and to get rid of a coverage not-spot at the very top of the glen.
As well as providing connectivity to EE customers in the area, and 999 coverage to all visitors, the mast is also part of the UK Home Office’s Emergency Services Network – a critical 4G communications system for use by Britain’s Emergency Services and other first responders.
Ian Pooleman, secretary and medical officer, LMRT, said: “Communications play a vital role in all of our rescue operations.
"We primarily use VHF radios to communicate with our base and other team members on the hill.
"We have had communication challenges in Glen Nevis and some aspects of Ben Nevis for many years, and the opportunity to locate a ‘repeater’ on this tower, with the support of BT Group, will make our operations safer and more efficient.”
David McKean, BT Group’s tower division director, said: “We’re delighted to be able to support Lochaber Mountain Rescue Teams search and rescue efforts through the deployment of vital communications equipment on our tower at Glen Nevis.
"This is a simple yet effective example of how we can diversify the use of our portfolio of physical assets, many of which are in remote locations, to support the UK’s broader digital needs and connect more people for good, both now and into the future.”
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