Calls for broadband roll-out in remote areas

Northern Isles MP, Alistair Carmichael, has called for clarity on the future of broadband rollout in remote areas in Orkney and Shetland.

His comments come after BT activated superfast broadband for 1,200 homes in Kirkwall earlier this week as part of the BDUK scheme.

BT announced further connectivity across the Orkney Mainland into Burray and South Ronaldsay. Further plans are also in place for Stromness, Deerness, Evie, Finstown, Holm and St. Margaret’s Hope, but the outer isles are not included in the upgrade programme at present.

Mr Carmichael said: “I am pleased that the superfast broadband rollout has, at last, reached Orkney and that there are plans to deliver it across the Mainland and South Ronaldsay. That is good news for local people who live there but there are many in the Isles who won’t benefit from this upgrade.

“Local people in Orkney and Shetland need to have more clarity over the timetable for superfast broadband roll out. This is especially true for those in remote areas who are not covered within the programme.

“The outer isles, for example, are not part of this investment plan and I have urged both the Scottish Government and BT to talk to communities and tell them when they can expect broadband improvements.

“We want to know when we can expect to receive upgrades so that our local services and businesses can plan ahead. It is vital that our remote areas are not left in the lurch.”