Tweeddale MP David Mundell held a rural broadband meeting in the Newlands Centre at Rommano Bridge, bring together key stakeholders and local community representatives to look at what more can be done to boost broadband speed and reliability for the worst affected communities along the A701 and the Stobo Valley. He was joined at the meeting by representatives from the Scottish Government, Scottish Borders Council, Community broadband Scotland and BT. Mr Mundell has long fought for improvements to the broadband network locally and it is one of the most common issues raised with him by constituents.
The local MP has welcomed UK Government investment in rural broadband but believes the implementation of the roll out must ensure that it is not the same communities who once again miss out on upgrades. Mr Mundell used the meeting to join local residents and businesses in making the case for giving priority to tackling the most serious problem areas where people have little or no access to broadband and believes that a number of communities locally like Stobo should not face prejudice just because they have outdated exchanges and outlying properties which are a considerable distance from the main exchange. The meeting also provided the opportunity for residents to ask questions about the roll out and other initiatives which may be able to help.
Speaking after the meeting Mr Mundell said: “This meeting was really important as it brought together those implementing the Super Fast Broadband roll out scheme and representatives from the local community including both residents and businesses. Whilst we didn’t get all the right answers it is clear that a significant roll out of improved broadband speeds and reliability is on its way to the Scottish Borders and that is to be welcomed.
However, it is vital that we make sure that the investment is maximised and rather than focusing on easy improvements which boost the headline figures, it is really important that we look to tackle the most serious problem areas first to ensure that everyone living locally has some kind of access to broadband. I hope we managed to get that message across and I look forward to continuing to work with the communities affected over the next few months to make sure their case is heard.”
Mr Mundell who has also recently launched a local broadband survey added: “Here in this part of the world, especially in our most rural communities broadband and the internet are key to modern life and it is unacceptable for people to be excluded from the roll out of new technology. That is why as well as holding this special meeting I have also launched a local broadband survey which can be accessed at www.davidmundell.com/campaigns which I hope will help gather more information to help make the case for further improvements. Anyone who has trouble accessing this online can of course contact my constituency office to request a paper copy.”