South of Scotland superfast broadband goal targeted

The project hopes to secure superfast broadband services right across southern Scotland

A major project is under way to try to deliver superfast broadband across the south of Scotland.

Dumfries and Galloway and Scottish Borders councils have joined up with Scottish Enterprise and local NHS boards for the scheme.

The South of Scotland Alliance (SoSA) plan aims to help the area avoid being a victim of the "digital divide".

It is preparing a bid to the Scottish government for funding to secure the provision of next generation broadband.

By 2015, it is estimated about 66% of the UK population will have access to next generation or superfast broadband.

However, less than 25% of the south of Scotland population is likely to be covered by the roll-out.

The new project aims to redress the balance.

Dumfries and Galloway Council leader Ivor Hyslop - who is joint chairman of SoSA - said the area needed the same superfast broadband speeds that were available elsewhere in the country.

He said this could help promote economic regeneration, community development and efficiencies in the public sector.

Reports will be presented simultaneously to both local authorities on 25 August to allow councillors to consider the financial implications of the project in their respective areas.