All new build homes in Scotland are required to feature faster broadband from 1 January 2025. Updated legislation introduced by the Scottish Government amends building standards requiring developers to ensure that all new build homes have the physical infrastructure and capability of providing gigabit-speed connection.
This update aligns with the Programme for Government commitment to grow the economy by connecting over 20,000 premises to gigabit capable broadband and follows a consultation where the majority of network operators and housebuilders welcomed the change. It reflects the increasing importance of reliable, high-speed internet connectivity in today's society, supporting activities including remote working, and access to public services, education and health.
How does this amendment to the legislation impact developers?
Under the new requirements, developers must ensure the following:
- Gigabit-capable connections
Broadband speeds are measured in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps) which refers to how quickly data can be uploaded or downloaded from the internet.
New homes must have the infrastructure to support broadband services at speeds of at least 1 gigabit per second or 1,000 megabits per second, subject to a £2,000 cost cap per dwelling. - Fallback option:
If providing a gigabit-capable connection is not feasible within the cost cap, developers must deliver the next fastest broadband connection available within the same financial limit. - Exemption criteria:
Developers can claim an exemption if they provide two quotes from network operators demonstrating that costs of a gigabit-capable connection exceed the £2,000 cap.
This framework ensures that new homes are future-proofed for high-speed internet whilst balancing the economic realities of network infrastructure installation.
As digital infrastructure becomes as fundamental as electricity or running water, this legislation represents a significant step forward in making high-speed internet a standard feature of modern homes. By ensuring new builds are equipped with cutting-edge broadband capabilities, Scotland is not only meeting current demands but also anticipating the connectivity needs of the future.
This initiative is a win for homeowners, businesses, and the broader economy, fostering innovation, productivity, and digital inclusion across the country.
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