HIGHLANDS and Islands Enterprise (HIE) today [Wednesday, 20 October, 2010] welcomed the news that its bid for UK Government funding to deliver superfast broadband in some of Scotland’s most rural areas had met with success.
HIE chief executive, Alex Paterson, said he was delighted that the strengths of the Highlands and Islands’ case for funding had been recognised.
“We worked hard to put together a strong bid which the Scottish Government could take forward with confidence,” said Mr Paterson.
“The next generation of digital technology is going to be a ‘must have’ for rural regions like the Highlands and Islands in the coming years.
“Superfast broadband will have a significant economic and social impact on the Highlands and Islands and ensure the region remains internationally competitive.
“Just like good transport and telecommunications systems, it’s an enabling technology which stands to benefit businesses and communities in hard-to-reach locations even more than those in major cities.
“Our ultimate aim is for all parts of the Highlands and Islands to be able to benefit. This news brings that goal a big step closer.
“Once we know the details of the BDUK funding, we’ll be looking to supplement this from other sources, as well as continuing discussions with telecoms providers to secure their support.”
ends
Notes to editor
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) delivers the Scottish Government’s economic strategy by supporting the sustainable growth of ambitious businesses and communities across the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. You can visit our website at http://www.hie.co.uk and follow us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/highlandsandislandsenterprise
HIE’s activities contribute to a comprehensive range of measures introduced across the public sector as part of the Scottish Government’s Economic Recovery Plan. For more information visit: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Economy/economic-situation
MEDIA RELEASE posted by Highlands and Islands Enterprise. You too can post media releases (aka press releases) on allmediascotland.com. For more information, email here.
Government announces successful bid for superfast broadband for Highlands and Islands
Issued: Wednesday 20 October 2010
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) today [Wednesday, 20 October, 2010] welcomed the news that its bid for UK Government funding to deliver superfast broadband in some of Scotland’s most rural areas had met with success.
HIE Chief Executive Alex Paterson said he was delighted that the strengths of the
Highlands and Islands’ case for funding had been recognised.“We worked hard to put together a strong bid which the Scottish Government could take forward with confidence,” said Mr Paterson.
“The next generation of digital technology is going to be a ‘must have’ for rural regions like the Highlands and Islands in the coming years.
“Superfast broadband will have a significant economic and social impact on the Highlands and Islands and ensure the region remains internationally competitive.
“Just like good transport and telecommunications systems, it’s an enabling technology which stands to benefit businesses and communities in hard-to-reach locations even more than those in major cities.
“Our ultimate aim is for all parts of the Highlands and Islands to be able to benefit. This news brings that goal a big step closer.
“Once we know the details of the BDUK funding, we’ll be looking to supplement this from other sources, as well as continuing discussions with telecoms providers to secure their support.”
ends
Notes to editor
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) delivers the Scottish Government’s economic strategy by supporting the sustainable growth of ambitious businesses and communities across the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. You can visit our website at http://www.hie.co.uk and follow us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/highlandsandislandsenterprise
HIE’s activities contribute to a comprehensive range of measures introduced across the public sector as part of the Scottish Government’s Economic Recovery Plan. For more information visit: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Economy/economic-situation
Issued by
HIE Communications Team
Kim Thain
01463 244238
Contact: HIE Communications
Phone: 01463 244238
Email: kim.thain@hient.co.uk
Website: http://www.hie.co.uk
