- EE, the Scottish Government, the Scottish Futures Trust and WHP Telecoms Ltd. switch on Auchenhessnane and Cairngarroch’s first 4G sites, bringing reliable connectivity for the first time
- New site will provide essential, reliable connectivity for the emergency services, as well as local communities and businesses
EE has partnered with the Scottish Government and WHP Telecoms to bring 4G to areas surrounding Auchenhessnane and Cairngarroch in Dumfries and Galloway, for the first time.
The sites are part of the Scottish Government’s £28.75 million Scottish 4G Infill programme (S4GI) which is delivering 4G infrastructure and services in so-called ‘not-spots’ in rural Scotland, providing 4G connections to areas which previously had no coverage.
Delivered by the S4GI programme, the new sites will provide vital connectivity in the areas surrounding Auchenhessnane and Cairngarroch. Scottish Emergency Services and Mountain Rescue will be able to access a reliable 4G mobile service for the first time, as well as residents, visitors and businesses.
By the summer of 2023, the Scottish Government’s S4GI programme is anticipated to deliver up to 55 masts, including those being used by EE as part of the Emergency Services Network roll-out.
Kate Forbes, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and the Economy, said: “The roll out of the Auchenhessnane and Cairngarroch masts in Dumfries & Galloway is really good news for local residents and businesses impacted by Covid-19.
“Digital Connectivity will continue to play a key role as we move forward with rebuilding and sustaining Scotland’s economic and social recovery. For tourism, agriculture and textile sectors furthering this national network protects people’s livelihoods and ensures more people can benefit from 4G coverage for the first time.
“Through our £28.75 million S4GI mobile infrastructure programme 25 new masts so far are now live, with more activations planned in the coming months.”
Martyn Cheyne, WHP Strategic Development Director, commented: “WHP Telecoms is pleased to have facilitated reliable coverage to these parts of Dumfries & Galloway for the first time by providing robust future proofed infrastructure from which EE is now delivering 4G coverage. We, at WHP, welcome other operators to share this site reducing the amount of infrastructure required in the landscape, increasing coverage and choice for everyone.”
Local resident, Deborah Maxwell, who owns alpaca trekking business Nith Valley Alpaca Farm near Thornhill, has said that the increased coverage will make a huge difference to daily lives in the areas surrounding Auchenhessnane and Cairngarroch.
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