More in

New broadband infrastructure for the Scottish Highlands

The Wireless Infrastructure Group (WIG) has built a new 50 metre tower in the Highlands town of Milton to provide surrounding communities with 4G.

As well as towns such as Milton and Kildary, the new infrastructure, which was developed in partnership with 02, will provide coverage for 15 miles along the A9. According to the organisation, it has been designed to offer access to all mobile network operators.

Speaking of the tower, cabinet secretary for the rural economy and connectivity Fergus Ewing said: "It is hugely encouraging to see the difference that projects like WIG’s are making to rural connectivity across Scotland.

“Investment in higher capacity mobile infrastructure is key to bringing digital services to the communities of the Highlands and Islands. We are working to deliver improved mobile connectivity across Scotland. The new tower at Milton is a great example of what can be achieved when the industry and public sector collaborates.”

Scott Coates, chief executive of the Wireless Infrastructure Group said: "This new tower is part of a much wider investment programme targeting rural mobile not spots in Scotland where we plan to double our presence over the next three years.

“We have ambitions to invest £1bn in UK digital infrastructure, targeting connectivity challenges in hard to reach areas through infrastructure solutions ranging from rural towers to fibre connected small cells in buildings and on city streets. WIG is also seeking to become Transport for London (TfL) wireless infrastructure partner to help transform connectivity below and above the streets of London.”