Superfast web links spread Fibre lines available to more homes
More premises across West Lothian can now upgrade to faster fibre broadband.
The £428 million Digital Scotland superfast broadband rollout means more than 900,000 premises across Scotland are able to connect to the new network, which has now reached additional premises in places including Whitburn.
Michael Matheson, minister for transport, infrastructure and connectivity said: “Fast and reliable internet is absolutely vital to communities across Scotland.
“It helps businesses stay connected with customers and colleagues and helps families learn, work, play and shop.
“It is fantastic that more premises in West Lothian are now able to connect to fibre broadband.
“The Scottish Government is not stopping there. Our Reaching 100 per cent programme, backed by an initial £600 million investment, plans to deliver superfast broadband access to every home and business in Scotland by the end of 2021 – the only part of the UK to do so.”
West Lothian’s executive councillor for development and transport Cathy Muldoon, said: “I am delighted that more areas across West Lothian can access fibre broadband thanks to the programme and more people are now able to get a superfast speed.
“Whether you are downloading a box set, a small business making transactions or just keeping in touch with friends, fibre broadband can make it all happen easily.”
Robert Thorburn from Openreach said: “The Digital Scotland project and our hard-working engineers have delivered more coverage at faster speeds than expected.
“As we mark another major milestone it’s fantastic that work will continue into 2019 thanks to extra funds generated through innovation, partnership efficiencies and strong take-up.
“Some of the latest properties passed by the new network – including dozens in the Bathgate, Broxburn, Linlithgow, Fauldhouse and Winchburgh exchange areas – can now connect to the most reliable and fastest residential broadband available as we’re using more fibreto- the- premises ( FTTP) to help these harder-to-reach homes join the digital revolution.
“Good connectivity is essential to a strong local economy and lets people live, learn, work and build businesses locally.
“We’re proud to be a partner in helping communities across West Lothian reach their digital potential.”
Digital Scotland is delivered by the Scottish Government with funding from the UK Government, BT Group, local authorities and the European Regional Development Fund.
Good connectivity is essential to a strong local economy