£384million has been allocated to ensure Superfast Broadband reaches the Highlands and Islands.

Overall the Scottish Government is allocating £600million to deliver Superfast Broadband to Scotland’s rural and island communities. The roll out is essentially a reserved issue to the UK Government but due to years of stalling and indecision the Scottish Government has taken the initiative and has focussed its latest investment on harder to reach parts of the nation.

Fergus Ewing Connectivity Secretary in the Scottish Government said:

Photo Scot Gov

“We have taken the decision not to focus on urban city centre premises in this first phase, but to target investment where it is needed most – in rural and remote Scotland. We are working with the private sector to encourage their own investment in unconnected urban areas, rather than rely on public funds.

“Reaching 100% will not be easy to achieve, however achieve it we must. Fast and reliable digital connectivity is a fundamental expectation of all communities, regardless of location.

“To deliver our ambition, this government is investing £600 million through the Reaching 100% programme – more than any government in the UK has ever invested in broadband.

“I am confident that this procurement approach, funded by our record investment, will put delivery of our unique 100% commitment within touching distance. We are aiming to provide a robust fibre backbone to underpin delivery of superfast broadband for all by the end of 2021.”

The current situation:  % of premises with access to fibre broadband