BT set to undertake super fast broadband installation in Scotland

There is good progress on the broadband installation initiative in Highlands and Islands, according to a local development agency.

It may be recalled that in June 2011, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) floated a tender inviting a partner to co-invest in the next generation broadband project. Three out of the four original bidders backed out paving the way for BT to undertake the project as the sole bidder.

BT is, in fact, pleased to undertake most probably the largest rural broadband project in the country. Andrea Rutherford of HIE admitted that it is a highly ambitious and challenging proposal to build the infrastructure for the benefit of the residents and business communities in the region. A technically sound commercial associate is needed to invest in the super fast broadband plan.

It will be a great privilege for BT to serve the people especially those in the rural areas, with high speed, good quality broadband connection facilities.

The work is scheduled to commence in 2013.

The details including the action plan, time limit and cost of each phase will be subject to negotiation.

The cost is estimated to be between GBP 200 million and GBP 300 million. The public sectors and private sectors will participate in the funding. The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) will also make its contribution.