While networks are already launching 5G coverage in urban areas, the current plan is still to ensure 95 per cent 4G coverage across the UK by 2025.
The new initiative will see operators EE, O2, Three and Vodafone share their phone mast infrastructure in certain areas to provide additional coverage to 280,000 homes and businesses and 10,000 miles of roads.
Earlier this month, uSwitch.com expressed concern about the low availability of 4G in rural areas, while only 28 per cent of the country is expected to have 5G by the end of 2019.
The newly proposed Shared Rural Network would see £530m invested in a network of new and existing phone masts that all networks would share, to be matched by £500m investment from government.
It is hoped that better 4G connectivity will make flexible working easier, boost regional economic growth and close the digital divide.
Digital secretary Nicky Morgan said: “We are determined to make sure no part of the country is left...