Broadband 'vital to Aberdeen's economic success'

Boosting the provision of superfast broadband connections is crucial for stimulating Aberdeen's economy, a local official has stated.

According to Barney Crockett, Leader of Aberdeen City Council, access to high-speed digital connectivity will "help to ensure the city's economic success".

He was speaking after figures obtained by the Evening Express revealed that more than 100,000 homes in the north-east of Aberdeen are now able to use superfast broadband connections.

The Scottish Government is currently putting £264 million into rolling out high-speed fibre optic broadband to homes and businesses across Scotland.

Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland's Deputy First Minister, believes this will provide a "platform for future economic development and regeneration".

She stated that the technology will improve the ability of businesses in Scotland to compete on an international stage, as well as transform the delivery of public services including education, health and social care.

"It provides Scotland with a platform upon which we can build and sustain a world-class digital country," Ms Sturgeon commented.

She added that both national and local government acknowledge that digital connectivity is vital to the country's future economic prosperity.