Scheme to help identify buildings for 5G mast installations

A new scheme will aim to accelerate the rollout of 5G in Scotland by identifying public buildings where masts can be installed, the Scottish Government has said.

The programme will help identify sites on public buildings and streets for masts and antennae, and reduce barriers to installing them.

Ministers said this will increase 4G and 5G mobile connectivity.

A total of 124 mobile masts are due to be installed in an effort to improve coverage in rural areas of Scotland.

The scheme, part of the Infralink programme, is led by the Scottish Futures Trust and is funded by the Scotland 5G Centre.

Scottish Government connectivity minister Paul Wheelhouse welcomed the “game-changing” move.

“The changes in the way we use digital technology to stay connected over the past 12 months have shown how vital reliable digital connectivity is in all of our lives,” he said.

“Continued investment in mobile infrastructure, and the tools to remove barriers and make collaboration straightforward for all parties involved, is essential to Scotland’s social and economic recovery from the pandemic.”

Hamish MacLeod, director of Mobile UK, which represents the UK’s mobile operators, said Infralink is a “welcome and innovative programme”.

Sarah Eynon, Infralink programme lead at Scottish Futures Trust, said the scheme “offers a win-win situation for both the public sector and operators, but Scottish citizens and businesses will reap the ultimate rewards”.