Four areas across Orkney benefit from “transformative” 4G mobile programme
Date: 30 August 2024
Time: 10:00
Mobile coverage across four areas of Orkney – Stronsay, Burray, Deerness and Rackwick - has been expanded as part of the Scottish Government’s Scottish 4G Infill (S4GI) £28.75 million programme.
The project is a significant initiative aimed at improving mobile connectivity in “notspots” - rural and remote areas of Scotland, including Orkney, that have little to no mobile coverage.
The programme to enhance mobile voice and data coverage by building new 4G masts in identified areas has benefitted more than 2,200 homes and businesses across Scotland.
The additional mobile coverage locally includes:
-
Stronsay – 4G services now available from EE
-
Burray – 4G services are now available from EE, VMO2 and Vodafone
-
Deerness – 4G services are now available from EE, VMO2 and Vodafone
-
Rackwick, Hoy - 4G services are now available from EE, VMO2 and Vodafone.
The project, which was funded through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Scottish Government, involved the construction of 55 new masts across rural Scotland.
As OIC works to achieve the aims set out in Orkney Islands Council Plan 2023-28 and the Orkney Local Development Plan, we have worked with Scottish Government, telecoms providers and the community to ensure that improved digital connectivity has been delivered.
The Council’s Graduate Trainee (Digital Engagement & Enterprise), Ewan Kennedy, said: “There are a number of benefits to people and businesses in Orkney as a result of these works – improved connectivity through the enhanced mobile voice and data coverage providing faster and more reliable internet connections.
"Better connectivity has opened opportunities for local businesses, enabling them to reach wider markets and improve their operations. It has also attracted new businesses to the area, boosting the local economy.
"Residents can now have better access to online services, including healthcare, education, and entertainment helping to contribute to reducing the digital divide between rural and urban areas and fostering a sense of feeling more connected.
“Overall, the S4GI project has been transformative for many rural and island communities, helping to bridge the digital divide and ensure that even the most remote areas are not left behind in the digital era.”
Owner and founder of Deerness Distillery Stuart Brown said: “The 4G mast in Deerness is a real benefit to our business providing additional connectivity for visitors and tourists.
“Tourists can now navigate via Google Maps to our Visitors’ Centre and can check-in, leave reviews and upload pictures of their fun experience at the distillery.
“It is also helpful during times of broadband outages for back-up payments over the 4G network – we have previously lost out on customer purchases. Cybersecurity is another area where 4G has helped, as many platforms are moving to two-stage verification systems. Being able to receive an SMS to obtain a password is great. Prior to this, we had to walk or drive one mile up the road to obtain a signal.”
S4GI was being delivered in partnership with WHP Telecoms Ltd. and the Scottish Futures Trust and is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) to support activity in the Highlands and Islands.
-
Category:
- Business and Trade
- Community
