SuperFast BroadBand In Highland Project

21st October 2010

Government announces successful bid for superfast broadband for Highlands and Islands

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) today [Wednesday, 20 October, 2010] welcomed the news that its bid for UK Government funding to deliver superfast broadband in some of Scotland's most rural areas had met with success.

HIE Chief Executive Alex Paterson said he was delighted that the strengths of the Highlands and Islands' case for funding had been recognised.

"We worked hard to put together a strong bid which the Scottish Government could take forward with confidence," said Mr Paterson.

"The next generation of digital technology is going to be a 'must have' for rural regions like the Highlands and Islands in the coming years.

"Superfast broadband will have a significant economic and social impact on the Highlands and Islands and ensure the region remains internationally competitive.

"Just like good transport and telecommunications systems, it's an enabling technology which stands to benefit businesses and communities in hard-to-reach locations even more than those in major cities.

"Our ultimate aim is for all parts of the Highlands and Islands to be able to benefit. This news brings that goal a big step closer.

"Once we know the details of the BDUK funding, we'll be looking to supplement this from other sources, as well as continuing discussions with telecoms providers to secure their support."