Campaigning For Improved Communications

Members of The Highland Council's Planning, Environment and Development Committee have pledged their support to continue campaigning, in partnership with other agencies, to ensure the development of excellent digital communications throughout the Highlands.

The importance of having a fundamental structure in place to provide fast, reliable computer access was discussed by the committee following a presentation by Stuart Robertson, Head of Regional Infrastructure with HIE on the provision of Broadband in the Highlands.

62% of households in the Highlands and Islands have Broadband but 1,200 Highland customers are registered as been out of reach. 

Following the presentation, the Committee discussed current difficulties in Broadband provision and raised issues about how future technological advances could be harnessed to ensure the Highlands offered the most up-to-date information technology to businesses and all users.

Chairman, Councillor Ian Ross said:  “The clear message that came through following our discussion today was the need to continue to actively work with HIE and other agencies to ensure that people living in the Highlands are not disadvantaged when it comes to using digital technologies.  It is vital to the successful economy of the whole area, especially the more remote and smaller communities, that businesses and households can take advantage of the latest technology developments and we are not left behind the rest of the country. This should be considered part of the essential infrastructure for our Area and everyone should have access to high connection speeds and good coverage at a competitive price.  Our aspirations for the Highlands are high. We will be actively supporting HIE to ensure we can take advantage of all the latest technologies and promoting a strong and compelling case for the Highlands.”