More than 100,000 faster broadband connections have now been
delivered to homes and businesses across Scotland
through the £600 million R100 programme.
The milestone marks significant progress in bringing
faster, more reliable broadband to communities across Scotland,
particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas.
Independent evaluation shows the positive impact improved
connectivity through the R100 programme is
having. Around three-quarters of businesses report increased
productivity and stronger performance, while nearly
two-thirds of households feel more connected
to friends, family and the wider world. Almost
half say their wellbeing has improved.
Business Minister visited Falkirk Distillery to
hear how access to faster broadband is helping to transform
and support the growth of the business.
Mr Arthur said:
“Fast, reliable internet is essential for modern life – it
supports businesses, enables remote working and helps
people access services and stay connected with friends and
family. Across Scotland, this investment is already delivering
real benefits and transforming lives and livelihoods.
“Reaching 100,000 connections is a significant milestone for the
R100 programme and our wider investment in Scotland's digital
infrastructure.
“We will continue to work with our delivery partners,
including Openreach, to maximise the impact of this
investment and extend the benefits to more homes and businesses
across the country.”
Fiona Stewart, owner of Falkirk
Distillery, said:
“Our faster broadband has been hugely beneficial for the
business. It has enhanced our online booking for tours and
improved our visitor experience due to better WiFi for our
customers, supported our digital marketing and social
media, and helped to make online payments in our retail shop
more resilient.
“It will also support a higher volume of digital payments as part
of our expansion plans including the launch of a new restaurant
and additional retail space.”
Robert Thorburn, Openreach Partnership Director for Scotland,
said:
“This is a fantastic milestone for Scotland.
Delivering almost all of these connections, our
engineers have worked in some of the most challenging locations
to bring full fibre to communities that need it most.
“It's about more than infrastructure - it's about opening up
opportunities and helping rural areas thrive for the long
term.”
Background
People can check the latest information on connectivity for their
home or business using the Scottish Government's online address
checker at gov.scot/broadband
R100 contract build is delivering gigabit-capable broadband –
more than 30 times faster than the original commitment – ensuring
resilient, high-speed connections for decades to come.
From community hubs and local charities to hospitality and high
street businesses, improved connectivity is helping organisations
across Scotland operate more efficiently and reach new
customers. The programme is helping rural businesses compete
globally and seize new opportunities, supporting activity in
emerging industries like Shetland's space sector and key sectors
including tourism.
R100 Interim Evaluation -
gov.scot
