Twelve months after a telecoms giant installed a massive new mast in Moray its benefits have still to be felt by the region.
It has emerged the equipment, on a site near Duffus, has still to be activated despite the connectivity woes of communities.
The delays have understandably frustrated local residents and businesses as many of those who rely on the network are unable to get a signal in the village.
Last night, O2 stressed it had adjusted nearby masts in an attempt to boost coverage until the new equipment is finally activated.
However, the firm explained it was likely to be “a number of weeks” before the new mast is operational.
Now Moray MSP Richard Lochhead has written to the firm’s chief executive, Mark Evans, in an attempt to speed up the process.
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He said: “Lack of mobile phone coverage in rural communities like Duffus is a source of real frustration for locals. There is really no underestimating what a barrier poor signal is for folk.
“I can understand why they will be disappointed that coverage in the area remains poor after hopes were raised by the new mast.”
The MSP has urged O2 to investigate the reasons behind the delay to avoid similar issues affecting future projects.
Yesterday, a spokesman for the telecoms firm explained they were working with third party engineers to complete the necessary connectivity works.
He added: “We have a new mast that has been built recently which will increase and improve the service for residents and businesses in Duffus.
“Unfortunately, I’m unable to confirm a date when the necessary work will be complete and the mast will go live.
“Subject to a successful implementation of those required works, we expect the site to be switched on in a number of weeks.
“Our engineers have made some adjustments to nearby masts to improve service levels in the village until the new mast is in full operation.”