A “game-changing” initiative to boost 4G and 5G mobile connectivity across Scotland has been unveiled, seeing businesses and communities across the nation benefit from the launch of a new toolkit by the Infralink programme. The toolkit will help identify sites on public buildings that are safe to locate masts and antennae, simplifying the installation agreement process.
It’s hoped that the programme will help to alleviate the challenges previously experienced in the attempted rollout of 4G and 5G infrastructure, and is expected to accelerate deployment and increase investment in digital technology across Scotland. This means that the nation would become the first in the UK to establish national pricing guidance for telecoms services.
On the new initiative, Paul Wheelhouse, Scotland’s minister for energy and connectivity, commented: “Infralink has been a game-changing move for Scotland’s mobile connectivity ambitions and will accelerate our commitment to next-generation connectivity, as set out in our 5G strategy for Scotland.
“The changes in the way we use digital technology to stay connected over [the] past 12 months have shown how vital reliable digital technology is in all of our lives.
“Continued investment in mobile infrastructure, and the tools to remove barriers and make collaboration straightforward for all parties involved, is essential to Scotland’s social and economic recovery from the pandemic.”
The initiative – led by the Scottish Futures Trust and funded by the Scotland 5G Centre – will apply to potential sites on land, buildings and streets, as well a4G and 5G technology across Scotland.
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“The Infralink programme provides the ideal opportunity for forward-thinking local authorities and public sector organisations to reap the huge benefits from improved connectivity without overburdening their current resources,” said Sarah Eynon, Infralink programme lead at Scottish Futures Trust.
“It offers a win-win situation for both the public sector and operators, but Scottish citizens and businesses will reap the ultimate rewards.”