Free wi-fi 'will ease strain on business'

ULLAPOOL is the latest Ross-shire town to gain access to free wi-fi under a wider roll-out led by Highland Council and funded by the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal.

The free wi-fi, called "High-Fi", is aimed at stimulating economic growth and boosting digital access across the Highlands. The village is part of phase three of the roll-out, and follows Alness, Dingwall, Invergordon and Tain in gaining access.

Local community groups hope the new network will ease pressure on Ullapool’s businesses, which have been experiencing high customer demand on their own wi-fi.

Phase three is seeing wi-fi rolled out in 14 Highland towns, with extensions in Thurso and Wick next in line after Ullapool.

The rollout involves local communities, groups and businesses. Ben Williams at the Ullapool Community Trust said: "This rollout is unique, in that it is the first in the Highlands to secure its backhaul access from a community interest company, Highland Community Broadband.

"The project has also taken a partnership approach with The Ullapool Harbour Trust and the Ullapool Community Trust, who have provided the access points and power supplies. Rapier Systems have delivered the installation and support of the wireless system making the collaboration truly one of a kind.

"The free wi-fi is designed to take some of the strain from increases in tourist numbers and give some respite to businesses who are seeing their own wi-fi over stretched. Locals can also log onto the network to receive updates about events in and around the Highlands as well as for basic browsing needs."

The public wi-fi is set to cover the main crossroads at the front of Ullapool leading on to the pier. The majority of Argyle Street and Quay Street are to be covered by the street level access as well as the ferry car park. There is also opportunity to extend the network if the roll-out is well received.

Chairwoman of the Ross and Cromarty area committee, Councillor Fiona Robertson said: "Digital connectivity is essential these days for daily life and the free access to wi-fi will enable visitors and locals to make the most of local businesses by checking what’s on, where to visit in the area, opening hours, accommodation and prices, as well as finding local job opportunities and keeping in touch with family and friends.

"High-Fi will be great for posting photos of our stunning scenery on social media and helping to promote Ullapool, and all this region offers, to the wider world. I look forward to seeing people using the hashtag #High-Fi-Ullapool."

To use the system turn on wi-fi on your phone, laptop or tablet. For High-Fi it shows the town name first – Ullapool_WiFi_Free (High-Fi).

You can then log on.

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