Thousands of Inverness homes set for internet upgrade
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SUPER-FAST broadband internet connections have been promised for more than 18,200 homes and businesses in Inverness.
The city will benefit from BT’s latest phase of a £2.5 billion fibre broadband programme — aimed at allowing customers to do more online.
Overall the high-speed technology will become available to 150,400 more Scottish homes and businesses when rolled out by spring next year.
It is expected to assist people who work from home and boost the local economy by providing more opportunity for new businesses to start.
"This is an important step forward," said Stewart Nicol, Inverness Chamber of Commerce chief executive.
"High-speed digital communications are a defining factor in our long-term success. At a time of economic uncertainty, BT’s investment in super-fast broadband allows us to create new opportunities, growth and future potential."
Similar improvements have already been announced for Nairn.
Internet users with a fibre broadband connection can do much more online, all at the same time.
A family can download a movie, watch a TV replay service, surf the net and play games online simultaneously. The latest chart hit can be downloaded in around two seconds, a CD in 30 seconds and a feature length HD film in 10 minutes.
Faster upload speeds also boost flexible and remote working, slashing office overheads and improving employees’ work-life balance. Large graphic and video files can be sent immediately instead of being physically delivered to customers on hard disk and high quality voice and video calls mean businesses can keep in touch with customers while they cut down on travel.
"The upgrade of BT’s main Inverness exchange is good news for households and businesses in the city," said Stuart Black, Highland Council’s director of planning and development.
"We will continue to work with BT and Highlands and Islands Enterprise to ensure upgrades for other communities in the Highlands."
The upgrade will give businesses a significant competitive edge, said Brendan Dick, BT Scotland director.
"Sophisticated communications are the lifeblood of any successful community," he said.
