Vodafone, Three Complete £15bn Merger Creating UK’s Largest 5G Network

Vodafone and Three UK have completed their £15 billion merger, forming VodafoneThree, the UK's largest mobile phone network with around 27 million customers. Despite concerns from regulators and consumer groups that the merger might lead to higher prices, the Competition and Markets Authority approved the deal on the condition of significant investments and price caps on certain tariffs. VodafoneThree has pledged to invest £11 billion over the next decade to develop one of Europe's most advanced 5G networks. The merger reduces the number of major UK mobile operators from four to three, intensifying scrutiny on whether the merged company will fulfill its commitments to consumers. Industry experts view the merger as positive for expanding mobile infrastructure, but consumer advocates emphasize the need for rigorous monitoring to protect customer interests. Meanwhile, Greater Manchester is set to benefit from a £2.5 billion transport investment over seven years to develop a fully electric, zero-emission integrated public transport system, including new buses, tram stops, and Metrolink extensions, supporting the region's growth and infrastructure plans.