MSP will host special summit to give advice on superfast internet

Angus North and Mearns MSP Mairi Gougeon will host a rural broadband summit in the New Year to give her constituents information and advice on a new Scottish Government scheme.

Holyrood has announced Angus and Aberdeenshire will share in a £384 million broadband rollout investment, along with Dundee, Aberdeen and the Highland and Islands as part of the £600m R100 programme.

The programme aims to get all of Scotland’s homes and businesses on superfast broadband by 2021 as part of a project announced by cabinet secretary for Rural Economy, Fergus Ewing.

While 88% of Angus and 82% of Aberdeenshire is already on superfast broadband, Mrs Gougeon will host an event in Brechin in February with Digital Scotland Superfast Broadband to give her constituents expert advice.

The SNP member: “The announcement from the Scottish Government about rural broadband is significant. It once again underlines how committed it is to bringing superfast broadband to every home in Scotland.

“The fact they have also recognised that the north of Scotland needs the most financial input testifies it wants to get it right for everyone – not just the central belt.

“As an MSP in a rural constituency I also want to get it right for every constituent and I want to recognise and help the people who don’t yet have access to superfast broadband as well as those who do.

“Some will get faster speeds sooner than others and by hosting a public summit, I hope we can get answers and solutions directly to my constituents who are waiting.”

The land west of North Mains Croft, Logie, Kirriemuir, where the owner has applied for permission for a chalet and touring caravan. Picture: Kris Miller.