Calls for help to enhance broadband connection in new homes

Calls for help to enhance broadband connection in new homes

A consultation opening on December 12th will look to gather views on proposed building regulations and their implementation.

Suggestions could amend current legislation that requires all new homes to have the infrastructure for gigabit-capable connections with a £2000 cost cap per dwelling. When this is not possible, the next fastest option - within the cost cap - should be installed.

The regulations also state that if the connection instalment surpasses the cost cap, then infrastructure must be built to facilitate later implementation.

After the consultation closes, ministers will consider recommendations, with any amendments to be proposed early next year.

Anyone can participate via Citizen Space, the Scottish Government's consultation hub.

Innovation Minister Richard Lochhead said:

“The Scottish Government is committed to providing an efficient and resilient digital infrastructure in Scotland, as set out in our National Strategy for Economic Transformation.

“The importance of an effective digital connection has been highlighted in recent years. It enhances the way we work, communicate with friends and family and access vital public services."     

Since the coronavirus pandemic, the Scottish Government has invested time and money to ensure digital connectivity is accessible and affordable nationwide – two factors that were essential to ensure social and economic survival over lockdown.

Currently, telecommunication legislation is a reserved matter for the UK government. However, up to date, the Scottish Government has invested over £1bn in projects to improve digital connectivity, including the Reaching 100% programme.

This call for help could also mean a step forward in the ‘no one is left behind’ section of the present digital strategy.

In 2020, the Scottish government also launched the Full Fibre Charter to strengthen the push for digital connectivity. The charter outlines a series of pledges looking for full fibre access nationwide. The list - divided into operator and governmental - includes from delivering infrastructure to relieving rates.