The newly merged VodafoneThree has announced work on a feasibility study for a new subsea cable system that aims to transform connectivity in the Shetland Islands.
The cable – which would run from mainland Scotland – would provide essential infrastructure for high-speed internet and telecommunications services for local communities, as well as businesses. It will also bring much needed digital resilience to the islands, support expected future demand in connectivity services, as well as create new opportunities such as the development of data centres.
The activity, which has been welcomed by the Scottish Government and will support the islands’ Local Development Plan which includes the development of new communications facilities to support the islands’ sustainable economic opportunities.
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Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Business, said: “High-speed connectivity is a necessity in today’s world – both for economic growth and everyday life. It is particularly important that residents, businesses and visitors to our rural areas and islands are not left behind in the digital age.
“Private investment is critical to delivering this mission and I welcome VodafoneThree’s renewed commitment to help deliver the infrastructure needed to support our island communities, including its intention to undertake a feasibility study into a subsea connection between Shetland and the mainland.”
The activities follow the introduction of 4G to locations across the Shetland as part of the ongoing commitment to the Shared Rural Network (SRN) programme, a joint initiative between Government and the UK mobile network operators, which aims to increase UK 4G coverage in rural areas.
Nick Gliddon, Director, Vodafone Business, said: “During our meetings in November 2024, with Shetland Islands Council, it was really apparent to me that connectivity is essential for everything from daily transactions to the growth of businesses and the economy.
“Through initiatives like the Shared Rural Network (SRN) programme, we are providing strong and reliable 4G coverage to our customers living in, working in, and visiting Shetland. The proposed cable could transform the connectivity landscape for the islands further, bringing significant economic and social benefits. We remain committed to delivering the necessary infrastructure to ensure the continued prosperity and growth of the islands.”
5G ambitions
The merger of Vodafone UK and Three in the UK will lead to the creation of one of Europe’s most advanced 5G networks, while delivering on the Government’s 2030 5G coverage ambitions by providing 90% of the UK population with 5G Standalone (5G SA) within three years (and 99.95% by 2034). The investment will exceed the UK Government’s Shared Rural Network minimum target, leading to the closure of the digital divide, with rural locations and communities benefitting from the connectivity across areas including health, education and agriculture.
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