This is part of an initiative that will see 55,000 premises across Ayrshire hitting with next generation broadband speeds.
Scottish Conservative Digital Spokesman Jamie Greene commented: “This rollout will be crucial in the years to come in helping Irvine adapt its cyber economy for the digital revolution. This is exactly the kind of private initiative that we should welcome in West Scotland, many households will now have access to proper broadband speeds that will help them connect to friends, family and commercial ventures across Scotland.”
“I’ve spoken to Virgin Media about their ‘Project Lightning’ initiative and I think it’s great that the private sector is willing to invest £3 Billion into the economy and it goes to show that there are really great investment opportunities in Irvine and West Scotland.”
“Of course Virgin fibre is only part of the mix that will be needed to ensure our towns and villages are connected. BT, mobile companies and other forms of technology will need to be explored in order to reach those difficult to connect areas especially those who are just a few miles from a main town but struggle to get any decent speed at all. It also demonstrates that the solution to our connectivity problem may require a mix of public and private funding to ensure it is sustainable.”
“It’s up to the people of Irvine to think of innovative ways that they can use these new broadband speeds. I want to see jobs created in Irvine and investment brought to our shores, having a well-connected cyber network is key to our future prosperity.
Mr Greene concluded by welcoming the news from the Autumn Statement that Chancellor Phillip Hammond has committed £1 Billion in digital infrastructure funding for the UK and a dedicated £800 Million for infrastructure spending in Scotland.
“Last week’s Autumn Statement is extremely beneficial in establishing a well-connected high-speed digital Scotland. With the right strategic investments Irvine and the West of Scotland could see some substantial returns in the long-term.”