‘Superfast broadband by 2015’ with new project

BROADBAND internet in Scotland could become five times faster under a new investment package worth tens of millions of pounds to improve the country’s digital services.

Consumer Focus Scotland said if the commitments in the Scottish Government’s blueprint for digital services are met, broadband speeds could be five times as fast by 2015.

Key parts of the project will include an infrastructure investment plan, as well as a series of initiatives to support local projects and develop ideas on how to improve broadband speed in Scotland.

Annie McGovern, digital expert at Consumer Focus Scotland, said: “Consumers in Scotland want to be able to keep pace with all the new fantastic technology developments the 21st century will offer. Having the right infrastructure is absolutely critical to doing this.

“These commitments by the Scottish Government will, if they are delivered, ensure that by 2015, broadband speeds are at least five times faster, more action is taken to better connect our remote and rural communities and that Scotland can be at the forefront of embracing new technology.”

Infrastructure secretary Alex Neil described the scheme as a “crucial step” in improving broadband access with a large chunk of the funding coming from the private sector.