Vodafone Ireland and Three Ireland have agreed to form a 50/50 partnership which it is hoped will expand mobile network coverage for consumers.

The operators will share their physical networks and site infrastructure across 2,000 locations in Ireland as part of the agreement.

The new joint venture company will oversee the roll-out of a consolidated portfolio of shared sites, while focusing on the maintenance and operations of the shared network going forward.

This is expected to give both companies increased purchasing leverage and a larger fibre footprint, as well as expanding network coverage.

Both firms will still offer independent 'intelligent' elements of their networks, such as core capabilities and service platforms. And they will also continue to manage their own radio equipment and spectrum separately.

Jeroen Hoencamp, chief executive officer of Vodafone Ireland, said: "Securing future investment for technologies in a competitive market is critical to maintaining a sustainable business.

"We believe this partnership will place Vodafone in a stronger position to commit to future investment in our network, and the products and services we provide to customers."