Three brings high-speed internet to Highlands

A MOBILE phone network is providing free access to high-speed broadband for rural areas in the Highlands.

Three said it is bringing almost four million megabytes of mobile broadband to people and businesses in the northern coastal areas of Melvich and Durness, as well as connecting the port in Invergordon.

The project will give away 20 devices to community hubs, families and local businesses, providing around three million webpages-worth of free access.

Three’s Rural Broadband Working Group is a UK-wide ­initiative which works with local politicians to identify areas with a need for broadband. Businesses and families are given free access to mobile broadband for a year using Three’s network.

It is the first time the group has operated in Scotland and will see sites such as a community hall and cafes get connected.

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “The numerous educational, economic and social benefits brought about by high-speed internet are often slower to come to rural areas such as the Highlands, so initiatives like this are crucial.

“This is all part of a longer-term commitment to ensuring Scotland enjoys a world-class digital infrastructure across the entire country by 2020.”

Three chief executive Dave Dyson, said: “With the Highlands having some of the most remote areas in Europe, these communities often don’t have access to the benefits of high-speed broadband.”