Broadband to reach more homeowners

RESIDENTS in the Lothians who are unable to access broadband at home are expected to be given the service by the end of the year.

Hundreds of homeowners in Westfield, Seafield and Mid Calder who are having problems with broadband services because their homes are too far away from their local telephone exchange, are set to be granted access over the coming months.

The Scottish Government's Broadband for Scotland programme aims to give high speed internet connections to remote locations across the country.

Councillor Martyn Day, of West Lothian, said: "A small number of residences – both private and commercial – are still unable to receive broadband services due to the physical distance from their serving telephone exchange being too great.

"It is generally a problem in rural areas but suburban and urban areas can also be affected.

"Not being able to access broadband can be frustrating and in this day and age it is necessary for both personal and work-related reasons.

"Those who registered with the programme and those who have genuine problems accessing broadband due to their location will benefit greatly."