- Openreach’s fibre network now reaches half of Scotland, enabling nearly 1.5 million properties to access ultrafast broadband.
- Over £435 million has been invested, with 30% of the fibre in rural areas, aiming to boost the Scottish economy significantly.
What happened: Openreach expands fibre network across Scotland
Openreach has successfully expanded its fibre network to reach half of Scotland, a significant milestone in enhancing broadband connectivity across the region. The telecoms infrastructure company has invested over £435 million in full fibre links, enabling nearly 1.5 million properties to access ultrafast and reliable broadband.
Currently, the uptake stands at 38%, surpassing the UK average. Approximately 30% of the new fibre installations are in rural areas, with around 100,000 of the hardest-to-reach properties upgraded in collaboration with the Scottish Government.
The expansion also includes connections for island communities such as Tiree, Iona, and Mull, as part of the Scottish Government’s Reaching 100% initiative. Ongoing work continues in various towns and cities, including Inverness and Perth, with further commercial builds planned for island capitals like Lerwick and Kirkwall.
Also read: Nokia partners with Openreach to boost UK fibre rollout
Also read: Wire 3 to expand Florida fibre network with $115M
Why it’s important
The rollout of Openreach‘s fibre network is pivotal for Scotland, as it addresses the growing demand for high-speed internet connectivity, which is essential for both daily life and economic growth. Richard Lochhead, the Scottish Government minister for business, emphasises that in today’s digital age, fast and reliable broadband is a necessity for individuals and businesses alike.
This development is not just about improved internet access; it also represents a substantial investment in Scotland’s digital infrastructure, which could yield significant economic benefits.Research from the Centre for Economics and Business Research predicts that the fibre rollout could inject £4.38 billion into the Scottish economy by 2029, potentially attracting around 27,000 new residents to lower-density regions.
This aligns with broader trends in the tech industry, where enhanced connectivity is crucial for remote work, digital learning, and innovative healthcare solutions.As the UK aims for 97% gigabit broadband coverage by 2027, Openreach’s efforts contribute to a national strategy that prioritises digital equity, especially in rural and underserved areas.
The collaboration between Openreach and the Scottish Government exemplifies a proactive approach to bridging the digital divide, ensuring that even the most remote communities can participate in the digital economy. As the demand for high-speed internet continues to grow, Openreach’s expansion is a timely reminder of the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports a connected future.
