Scottish government pledges £5m to business broadband upgrade project

A super-fast internet roll-out in Scotland could prove as advantageous for business broadband users as it is homeowners.

The Scottish Government has confirmed it will put up £5 million towards the cost of providing every building in the south of the country with a high-speed connection by 2020.

Plans for the project have already been drawn up by the South of Scotland Alliance and would benefit people in Dumfries and Galloway and the Borders.

Alex Neil, infrastructure secretary, said: "Access to next-generation broadband will prove hugely beneficial to the south of Scotland, helping existing businesses to expand, attracting new businesses to the area and connecting communities."

South of Scotland Alliance board member Tracey Logan noted the funds will help the dream of total super-fast broadband coverage become a reality.

A recent report by the Rutland and Stamford Mercury explained that Stamford is now home to super-fast broadband, thanks to the work of BT.