Iain MacAskill, a Skye fisherman, shared his experience of being able to stay well-connected at sea thanks to a new 4G-boosting phone mast in Mallaig. This mast, part of the Shared Rural Network (SRNP) programme, has significantly improved connectivity for rural communities like Mallaig, allowing individuals like Iain to conduct business admin tasks, liaise with buyers, access mobile banking, and stay in touch with loved ones even when miles offshore.
The recent Rural 4G Connectivity report emphasized the importance of the fishing industry for Scotland’s rural and coastal communities, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the local economy. Iain, being a lifelong commercial fisherman, highlighted how the upgraded 4G connectivity has transformed his ability to run and grow his business from his smartphone while out at sea.
With the improved connectivity, Iain can now exchange messages with buyers, communicate with friends and family, and access essential information online, all while on his fishing boat. The ability to stay connected and access high-speed internet has revolutionized how he operates his business, allowing him to handle emails, banking, and other tasks without the need to wait until he’s back on land.
Moreover, the new 4G connectivity has enabled Iain to quickly address technical faults on his boat, order necessary parts online, access weather forecasts, and even contact emergency services if needed. The convenience and efficiency brought by the improved connectivity have been described as “life-changing” for his work on the sea.
The FarrPoint report, commissioned by EE, highlighted the significant socio-economic impact of the 4G upgrades in rural communities like Mallaig. It estimated that the improved connectivity could deliver total benefits of over £1 million to the local community over a 15-year period. This demonstrates the tangible rewards that enhanced digital infrastructure can bring to remote locations, supporting local businesses, creating job opportunities, and integrating rural areas into the digital economy.
Andrew Muir, CEO of FarrPoint, emphasized that delivering modern mobile connectivity to rural communities is feasible and beneficial, despite the challenges. With approximately 9% of the UK lacking any mobile coverage, the efforts to expand and enhance connectivity in rural areas like Mallaig are crucial for driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and improving overall quality of life.
Greg McCall, chief networks officer at BT Group, EE’s owner, underscored the importance of extending modern mobile connectivity to all rural communities. The positive outcomes highlighted in the report are a testament to how improved connectivity can empower local businesses, generate economic value, and enhance the overall well-being of rural residents.