Tens of thousands of homes and businesses across some of the most remote areas in Scotland are expected to gain access to fast, reliable internet for the first time due to a major UK Government investment
Around 65,000 places will benefit from gigabit-capable broadband as part of a £157 million contract with Openreach, the largest ever awarded under the UK’s flagship Project Gigabit programme.
Keeping Scotland connected
This upgrade will improve digital connectivity in hard-to-reach parts of Scotland, including the Highlands, the Outer Hebrides, and remote islands such as Skye, Islay and Tiree.
These areas have always struggled with poor internet speeds due to outdated infrastructure, making it difficult for residents and businesses to do everyday activities like online banking, shopping, studying, or accessing healthcare services.
This change is part of the UK Government’s “Plan for Change,” which will tackle digital exclusion and boost local economies.
It ensures that no community is left behind as the country moves further into the digital age.
Improved internet access is expected to allow more people to work from home, run businesses, participate in online education, and access essential services such as virtual GP appointments and government resources.
Areas that will benefit from this change
Among the areas set to benefit are communities in the Outer Hebrides, where only 7% of premises currently have gigabit broadband, one of the lowest rates in the UK. Other remote locations such as Applecross, a remote peninsula in the Highlands, and Durness, the most north-westerly village on the UK mainland, are also included in the upgrade plan.
This move builds on work already underway through Scotland’s R100 programme and previous Project Gigabit contracts. The change will complement existing efforts to improve digital infrastructure in areas like the Borders and Midlothian, where an additional 11,000 premises are being connected. Later this year, future contracts are planned for Orkney, Shetland, and eastern parts of Scotland.
The investment is part of a bigger £800 million agreement with Openreach, announced last year, which includes similar efforts in rural parts of Wales and England. The UK and Scottish governments are working together to maximise efficiency and ensure that as many communities as possible gain access to modern, high-speed internet.
A more connected future
Upgraded full-fibre broadband will improve residents’ quality of life and create new economic potential. Faster internet enables local businesses to grow and innovate, supports tourism through better connectivity in visitor centres and rural attractions, and enhances digital inclusion for elderly and vulnerable people.
In the long term, the government aims to reach up to 30 million UK premises with full-fibre broadband by 2030. This nationwide initiative is crucial to building resilient communities, boosting productivity, and reducing regional inequality by ensuring that every household and business can thrive in the digital era, regardless of their location.
