Plans for a £25million project to address mobile phone “notspots” were announced at the Convention of the Highlands and Islands yesterday.
The Scottish 4G Infill Programme will fund new mobile telephone masts in locations with no existing 4G mobile coverage.
An initial 16 “notspot” sites have been identified, and about 60 to 70 areas will be targeted throughout the project. The majority of the programme will focus on sites completely without coverage in the Highlands and Islands.
Connectivity Secretary Fergus Ewing announced the launch of the procurement process at the convention in Millport. Scottish Futures Trust has developed the programme on behalf of the Scottish Government.
Mr Ewing said: “Widespread high-speed and reliable mobile coverage is just as vital as broadband, and ensures that people, communities, and businesses are able to stay connected.
“Improving mobile coverage across Scotland is key to achieving our ambition to become fully digitally connected. Our innovative Mobile Action Plan outlines how we are working with industry and other partners to improve coverage. The infill programme will target the areas where it can make the most difference, achieving better and cost-effective connectivity in some of our most remote and challenging areas.”
Tarskavaig near Sleat on Skye is one of the initial “notspots” being targeted. Kate Forbes, MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, welcomed the news.
She said: “Connectivity is so important to the Highlands.
“It gives an opportunity to be able to live on Skye, whilst working all over the world.
“The lack of connectivity affects education, business and leisure in places like Skye and so building mobile masts will make an enormous difference to linking up the unconnected areas.
“A few years ago, there would have been a mass outcry about the impact on the horizon and the scenery, and whilst there may still be some concerns, I think that the most people are very keen to get connected.”
Scottish Futures Trust chief executive Peter Reekie said: “After the successful bidder has been selected, SFT looks forward to working with them and the mobile network operators to identify as many 4G notspots that can be addressed within the programme’s budget. The deployment of future proofed mast infrastructure will then act as the catalyst to deliver good quality 4G coverage to those areas for the benefit of the local communities, businesses and tourists.”