UK carrier Virgin Media O2 has announced that it will kick off the retirement of its 3G network in April, beginning in Durham.

The telco, which first revealed its plans to retire its 3G network in 2023, noted that the switch-off will free up additional spectrum for its 4G and 5G networks.

Virgin Media O2 said that its 3G network accounts for less than three percent of all network data. O2 launched its 3G network more than 20 years ago.

The carrier plans to switch off its 3G network nationwide this year. Rival carriers EE and Vodafone shut down their 3G networks early last year, while Three UK said it has phased out 3G across most of the country.

“Switching off 3G will be an important milestone in the evolution of our network, enabling us to focus our attention and investment on faster and more reliable 4G and 5G networks that will deliver improved services for our customers," said Jeanie York, Virgin Media O2’s chief technology officer.

“By starting in just one location and by putting careful monitoring in place, we’ll minimize disruption to customers and ensure the success of this essential modernization program."

The company has urged its customers in Durham to upgrade to either 4G or 5G devices if they haven't already done so, ahead of the shutdown.

Virgin Media O2 didn't give a specific date for when its 3G switch off will be completed nationwide.

The telco claims that its 4G mobile network covers 99 percent of the UK, while its 5G network reaches more than half of the nation.

In July, the company stated it would start its transition away from its 2G network this year.