‘Rural areas must not be left behind’ says Highland MSP
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REGIONAL MSP Edward Mountain has gained an insight into the skills needed to bring state-of-the art broadband to the Highlands.
The Conservative MSP is convener of the Scottish Parliament’s rural economy and connectivity committee and, with committee colleagues, he joined trainees at Openreach’s £485,000 Scottish training school in Livingston to see how the latest, full fibre networks are built directly to people’s homes and businesses.
The revamped centre – unveiled in March – provides hands-on training for thousands of engineers who will build the next generation of broadband for communities across Scotland.
It includes a replica suburban street complete with cabinets, poles and cables to recreate the live network in the real world.
Mr Mountain said: “Scotland’s at the start of a digital journey from old copper cables to a full fibre future. The links between fast, reliable connectivity, productivity and economic growth are well understood. Rural communities must not be left behind.
“Having the right engineering skills here in Scotland will be vital, so it’s good to see training being prioritised by Openreach. It’s useful to get an understanding of the technicalities involved in fibre build and the challenges faced in the field.”
Visit host Brendan Dick, chairman of the Openreach board in Scotland, said: “Our firm belief is that full fibre is the only technology that will provide all the capabilities Scotland needs for the future. It will support other technologies such as 5G.
“We’re ramping up our commercial plans for full fibre and working flat out on bringing down the costs to make full fibre more viable for rural areas. Early builds in remote communities like Altnaharra and Glenmazeran have helped us to hone our skills.
“I welcome the committee’s interest and the chance to show how we’re investing in training, people and network to keep the people of Scotland well connected.”
