Edinburgh MP calls for fibre broadband project support

Edinburgh MP Mike Crockart is rallying government support for the Scottish capital's efforts to implement fibre broadband through the super-connected cities project.

The Liberal Democrat minister has written to culture secretary Jeremy Hunt to persuade him to support the city's tiered bid for new funding to implement super-fast broadband and wireless connectivity.

Mr Crockart noted that Edinburgh's World Heritage status, as well as its high number of research institutions, universities and festivals, makes it vital for residents and local organisations to have access to high-end broadband speeds.

He also underlined the importance of ensuring that any connectivity enhancements are also accessible to rural parts of west Edinburgh, such as Kirkliston, Ratho, Dalmeny and South Queensferry.

"A super-connected capital will benefit businesses, individuals and our capital as a whole," the minister stated.

Through the super-connected cities scheme, key urban centres will receive fibre broadband upgrades to enable internet speeds of between 80 and 100Mbps, with fourteen cities eligible to apply.