EE has collaborated with several partners, including the Scottish Government, the Scottish Futures Trust, and WHP Telecoms, to deliver 4G connectivity across remote areas in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. This joint effort has led to the installation of 13 new 4G masts as part of the Scottish Government's Euros 28.75 million Scottish 4G Infill programme (S4GI), aimed at extending 4G infrastructure and services to rural areas that previously suffered from severely limited mobile coverage.
Also Read: EE Boosts Mobile Capacity in Edinburgh Ahead of Festival Season
Addressing Communication Challenges
By working together, the partners have addressed signal 'blackspots' and improved mobile coverage in rural Scotland, enabling critical services like the Jura Medical Practice to communicate effectively with their helicopter landing pad during emergencies. Additionally, this enhanced 4G connectivity benefits residents, visitors, and businesses in the region, providing access to reliable mobile service and promoting overall safety and economic development.
The introduction of high-speed 4G connectivity was made possible by two newly erected masts on the Isle of Jura, bringing communication for the Jura Medical Practice during emergencies. EE stated that the medical facility can now effectively communicate with its helicopter landing pad and ensure on-call doctors remain reachable.
Also Read: EE Deploys Over 600 Small Cells to Enhance Mobile Coverage Across the UK
Enhancing Emergency Response
According to EE, the ongoing project has already connected 13 remote 'blackspots,' and in 2023, an additional six areas across the Highlands and Islands are scheduled to be activated. These sites will provide crucial connectivity to Scottish emergency services and Mountain Rescue teams, while residents, visitors, and businesses will also enjoy access to reliable 4G mobile services.
The Jura Medical Practice, profoundly impacted by the masts installed at Craighouse and Ardlussa, has transitioned to a modern VoIP phone system and now benefits from reliable connectivity for on-call and locum staff. The medical facility frequently relies on life-saving helicopter transfers to mainland hospitals.
Also Read: EE to Expand 5G to Rural Areas and Tourist Destinations
The 13 remote 'blackspots' that have been successfully connected across the Highlands and Islands are Inverie (Knoydart), Kenmore, Achosnich, Brecklate, Elgol, Inverchoran, Rackwick, Ardlussa, Craighouse, Lochbuie, Stronsay, Stronachlachar, Cawdor.
The Scottish Government's S4GI programme is delivering 55 masts, including those employed by EE for their Emergency Services Network (ESN) roll-out.
With the continued efforts of the Scottish Government and its partners, this digital transformation promises to impact the well-being of residents and visitors, ensuring that crucial services and connectivity are accessible even in the most remote corners of Scotland.
