• Manager of an iconic 150-year-old hotel on Skye says improved mobile coverage will benefit businesses and tourists alike
  • New mast provides more than 330,000 square metres of enhanced 4G mobile coverage across central and northern parts of the island
  • Research shows 4G mobile connectivity can help generate more than £1 million for rural communities on Skye, supporting job creation and business growth
  • In Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, EE’s mobile network now covers 98% of the population and two thirds of the landmass

The manager of a luxury 4-star hotel on Skye has welcomed the installation of a new 4G mobile mast on the island, saying it should help boost revenues and could be lifesaving.

Staff and visitors to The Skeabost House Hotel, which is more than 150 years old, are enjoying improved connectivity thanks to mobile upgrades on Skye by network operator EE, part of BT Group.

The new 4G mast was built using a helicopter and has been strategically located among trees to minimise its visual impact on the natural surroundings.

It provides enhanced 4G coverage to several key areas on the island, with a primary focus on improving safety in remote locations where lone workers, such as crofters, or tourists exploring the island’s natural beauty might need emergency assistance. The enhanced mobile connectivity covers parts of Glen Bernisdale, Skeabost, Loch Snizort, Loch Niarsco, Loch Ravag, and large sections of the A850 and B885 roads.

The new mast is already being extensively used by the local community, with network data showing it is one of the busiest EE mobile sites in the area and was heavily relied upon by residents and visitors during the recent bad weather caused by Storm Bert.

Andreas Maszczyk, General Manager of Skeabost House Hotel, part of the Sonas Collection, is excited about the benefits reliable mobile connectivity will give both guests and the local community.

He said: “Safety is paramount, especially in the rural areas of Skye. This new mast ensures people can make a call in an emergency. Whether it’s someone with a flat tyre in a remote area or a climber needing urgent help, being able to make that crucial call can be lifesaving.”

He also highlighted how the improved coverage will help both visitors and the residents of the island: “The Isle of Skye is an explorer’s paradise, with most of our attractions being outside. Reliable connectivity allows visitors to plan spontaneously, check weather forecasts, and make reservations on the go.

“It’s not just about convenience; it’s about making the most of their time on our beautiful island. But more importantly, it provides a crucial safety net for everyone exploring the island’s rugged beauty.

“Whether it’s for work, education, or maintaining social connections, this enhanced connectivity will make life on Skye more connected and efficient for all residents.”

The mast, situated west of Peiness and Uigshader, is part of EE’s broader efforts to expand coverage in Scotland for communities that need it most. Its construction follows economic research by Scottish-based consultancy, Farrpoint, that found 4G mobile connectivity can generate an economic boost of more than £1 million for rural communities on the Isle of Skye, supporting job creation and business growth while also providing access to critical digital services for local people. In larger rural communities, the economic boost rises to £6.9 million.

EE has worked closely with local organisations and planning authorities to ensure its connectivity provides maximum benefits for residents and local businesses, while respecting the unique ecology and wildlife of Skye.

Greg McCall, Chief Networks Officer at BT Group, added: “Skye is one of the most popular locations in the Scottish Highlands for good reason and is renowned for its rich history, cultural attractions and iconic scenery. This new mast is part of our ongoing commitment to help close the digital divide and ensure that the benefits of reliable 4G connectivity are more widely felt by rural communities in every corner of the UK.

“The improved mobile coverage will benefit both residents and local businesses, as well as the many thousands of visitors the island welcomes each year. It also provides an important backup to landlines in case of an emergency.”

In the Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch parliamentary constituency, EE’s mobile network now covers 98% of the population and two thirds of the landmass. This is important because the new and enhanced coverage will allow emergency calls to be made across all mobile networks.

-ENDS-

Source: EE Newsroom