Putting up 4G masts in remote communities can provide sufficient social and economic benefits to financially break-even after 15 years according to a report by connectivity and smart technology consultancy FarrPoint.
The installation of a new 4G mobile mast for the Achiltibuie community on the west coast of Scotland resulted in35 per cent of residents rating their phone service as poor compared with 77 per cent before the 4G mobile mast was installed. Only per cent of respondents rated their mobile signal as good before the mast was commissioned.
The mast was installed as part of Scotland’s 4G Infill Programme which is a £28.75 million Scottish Government programme to deliver 4G in mobile “notspots”.
“Our study highlights both the increased quality of life that comes from the installation of mobile 4G masts”
“The installation of mobile 4G masts in rural communities can improve not only the quality of life for communities, but also reduce environmental impact “according to FarrPoint which calculates the financial breakeven point occurs in year 15 in line with government expectations
“Digital connectivity is often prioritised for those living and working in urban areas. However, having access to a mobile signal is just as important if not more so for those living in rural communities”, said Farr Point CEO Dr Andrew Muir.
“The Scottish Government’s Scotland 4G Infill Programme has been central to improving mobile connectivity across the country and our study highlights both the increased quality of life that comes from the installation of mobile 4G masts, and the economic and environmental benefits.
“While the report centres around the impact of just one mast in the west of Scotland, its findings are wider reaching. For public bodies with population in rural areas, I hope that the findings we have outlined can support them in making mobile coverage improvements. We have seen fhow this local community has benefitted from this investment, and look forward to seeing these benefits being delivered to other mobile blackspots through similar investment
Full report HERE: