Vodafone failed to meet an obligation to reach 90 per cent of the UK population with 3G network coverage by 30 June 2013, according to Ofcom.

The UK regulator conducted a compliance assessment for each of the country’s operators, and found that Vodafone fell 1.4 per cent short of the requirement. The other three UK operators – EE, Three and O2 – all complied.

Vodafone has a plan in place to meet Ofcom’s requirements by the end of 2013, which will see it roll out 3G technology to a greater number of mobile masts than originally deemed necessary. Ofcom said the plan is credible but will closely monitor progress.

Due to Vodafone’s positive response, Ofcom will not take any enforcement action. Further action is possible, however, if Vodafone fails to meet compliance by January 2014.

The initial award of 3G spectrum licences in 2000 included an obligation for operators to roll out services to 80 per cent of the UK’s population and this was raised to 90 per cent in 2010. All four UK operators agreed to meet the increased coverage requirement by 30 June 2013.

Ofcom has similar coverage obligations in place for 4G coverage to deliver near universal mobile broadband access within the next few years.

O2 is required to extend 4G coverage into indoor areas in which 98 per cent of the UK population lives by 2017. This is expected to provide more than 99 per cent outdoor coverage. The other three operators have said they plan to match O2.