Iona next in line for full fibre connection
Openreach engineers have been spotted on Iona in recent days as the island prepares for a long-awaited leap in its connectivity.
Full fibre is finally coming to Iona, months after the upgrade was rolled out in nearby Bunessan on Mull.
Openreach says that the technology will "transform connectivity" for the island’s 170 residents, as well as the seasonal workers and 100,000 tourists who visit annually.
Openreach is building the network on behalf of the Scottish Government’s Reaching 100% programme.
Planners have been working with the National Trust for Scotland and Historic Environment Scotland to ensure the build does not disrupt the island’s significant religious heritage.
Planners have decided to carry out the work now to avoid corncrake breeding season and to avoid significantly disrupting tourism.
The fibre cables will follow existing 19th and 20th-century roads leading north from Baile Mòr and through the Iona Conservation Area to provide telecoms links to farms across the island.
It is anticipated that 100 per cent of the island will be covered.
The build will see work near three historic monuments - Iona Nunnery, Maclean’s Cross and the iconic Iona Abbey.
It is anticipated that artefacts from medieval periods could well be found during the work.
Harrie Burney, property manager for the National Trust for Scotland, said: “Iona is a pretty special place in terms of the history of Scotland.
"A lot of people know Iona for the Abbey and St Columba but it also has a history that goes a lot further back. It’s also vital that we protect nature on the island, with the works scheduled to manage this carefully.
“Our aim is to care for, protect, and share this special place for the benefit of everyone. We’re working with the engineers to put archaeological monitoring in place and make sure we’re not going to cause any disturbance, but there’s also an opportunity to uncover new finds.
“Connectivity on Iona is a real issue and something that’s very important to the population here. There’s been a real buzz around the connectivity improving, so this project will make a huge difference.”
Scottish Government business minister, Richard Lochhead, said: “More than 40 islands will benefit from the R100 contracts and it’s great to see activity get under way on Iona.
"I’d encourage everyone to take up the service when build is complete.”
Fraser Rowberry, Openreach chief engineer for Scotland, said: “As anyone who’s been to Iona knows, it’s a truly special and spiritual place. Its historic and environmental importance make it an ultra-sensitive build location.
“Iona residents couldn’t have given us a warmer welcome. Young islanders who risk missing some mainland schooling each winter, seasonal workers and businesses are all overjoyed at the prospect of better broadband.”
Work is also due to start on Tiree in the coming weeks.
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