Free Wi-Fi project set to turn on in towns
Free Wi-Fi is set to be introduced to four more towns in Perth and Kinross after Blairgowrie became the latest to be switched on.
Crieff and Auchterarder already have the facility, with Pitlochry, Aberfeldy, Kinross and Dunkeld also in line as part of a wider rollout.
Comrie, Coupar Angus and Scone could also be included with studies taking place.
The project had been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
A spokesperson for Perth and Kinross Council said: “Auchterarder and Crieff already have free Wi-Fi in the town centres. This will be rolled out to Pitlochry, Blairgowrie, Aberfeldy, Kinross and Dunkeld shortly. The council’s contractor is currently surveying Comrie, Coupar Angus and Scone for future installation.
“Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions, we have experienced a delay in installations, however, we hope to get as many as possible locations live over the coming months.”
Free public access to the internet is being developed across Europe to help improve the connectivity of communities.
It enables visitors to access information on travel, facilities and services in the town as well as avoid high roaming charges, making places more attractive destinations to stay in.
And it also helps people stay connected in times of emergency in areas where there is poor reception, such as rural Perthshire.
Work started in Blairgowrie to introduce Wi-Fi in 2019.
Conservative councillor for the Blairgowrie and Glens ward Caroline Shiers said: “I am delighted that the work to install public Wi-Fi in Blairgowrie is now complete.
“There was a long-standing issue with a connection which PKC officers have persevered with and it is now up and running.
“Access to public Wi-Fi is something visitors now expect and the timing of these works being completed ahead of expected easing of lockdown restrictions is good news for visitors, locals and businesses in the centre of the town.”
Phil Seymour is the chair of Blairgowrie and Rattray Community Council.
He welcomed the news, commenting: “The community council is delighted that our initiative of providing free Wi-Fi in the town centre has finally come to fruition.
“The challenges of the last year have shown us all the benefit of digital communications and this service should increase accessibility.
“It provides a major boost for both locals and visitors.
“We hope people will make use it.”