Super-fast broadband pledge for 150,000 Scottish homes and businesses
Super-fast broadband will become available to another 150,400 Scottish homes and businesses by spring next year in the latest phase of BT’s £2.5 billion roll-out of fibre broadband in the UK.
Inverness, Falkirk, Troon, Ayr and Forfar are among the 18 places in Scotland included today in the rapidly developing programme.
It will take the number of Scottish homes and businesses being passed by the new super-fast network to almost 836,000.
More than 245,700 Scottish premises now have access to super-fast speeds with another 439,700 already planned for later this year, before today’s announcement.
Brendan Dick, BT Scotland director, said it would bring a major economic boost and assist people into new kinds of work, including starting up their own businesses.
Dick said: “This is a further major BT investment for Scotland. Our roll-out of fibre broadband is going from strength to strength.
“In these tough economic times, this exciting technology will give a big boost to local businesses and households. Sophisticated communications are the lifeblood of any successful community.
“Super-fast broadband can give our businesses a significant competitive edge, helping them save money and improve their services at the same time.
“Fibre broadband also has the potential to change the face of public services and revolutionise entertainment at home. Local families will be able to experience entertainment, shopping and a myriad of services delivered the super-fast way.”
Alex Neil, the Scottish Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment said: “Scotland’s digital action plan seeks to achieve world-class digital connectivity across Scotland.
It is crucial that business providers invest in this programme and I am delighted to see further evidence of commitment in this sector with BT announcing significant investment in Scotland.
“Next generation services will play a pivotal part in growing the Scottish economy, helping businesses to thrive, bringing new employment and boosting opportunities for people of all ages.”