New network brings faster broadband link

Cables improve connection to rural communities

Rural areas have seen an extension in the highspeed fibre broadband network, it was claimed this week.

Premises in Blanefield, Stirling, Balfron, Drymen and Killearn are among the latest to be reached by the project, extending existing coverage in these areas.

Most of the latest connections to be upgraded were previously exchange-only lines, a legacy of the copper network that was thought to be out of the reach of high-speed fibre services.

Exchange-only lines run directly from the exchange to homes and business premises, bypassing roadside cabinets.

Engineers worked out a way to integrate these lines into the fibre network, laying hundreds of metres of new cables.

Residents and businesses need to sign up for the new, faster services as upgrades are not automatic.

Cabinet secretary for the rural economy and connectivity Fergus Ewing said: “More than 90 per cent of Scotland now has fibre broadband available, thanks to both the Digital Scotland superfast broadband programme and commercial coverage.

“The programme is progressing further and we are extending coverage in smaller communities like Balfron, Drymen and Killearn.

“The Scottish Government is committed to delivering 100 per cent superfast broadband access across Scotland by 2021 and plans are currently being developed to ensure that this is the case.

“During the summer months our existing programme will continue to advance across the country, bringing highspeed broadband to new rural communities.”

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