Home builders in Scotland could be required by law to install gigabit capable broadband infrastructure according to new proposals to amend building regulations.
Developers would have to ensure that new build properties have connection points to deliver 1,000 megabits per second broadband speeds.
A three month consultation has been launched to gather views about the proposed regulations and how they would be implemented.
The proposals would amend building regulations to require developers to ensure that:
- all new build homes are installed with the gigabit-ready physical infrastructure necessary for gigabit-capable connections
- a gigabit-capable connection is installed in a new build home subject to a £2,000 cost cap per dwelling
- or where a gigabit-capable connection is not being installed, the next fastest broadband connection is installed within the £2,000 cost cap
Innovation Minister Richard Lochhead said: “The Scottish Government is committed to providing an efficient and resilient digital infrastructure in Scotland, as set out in our National Strategy for Economic Transformation.
“The importance of an effective digital connection has been highlighted during recent years. It enhances the way we work, communicate with friends and family and access vital public services.
“A key theme of our digital strategy is ensuring that no one is left behind and that is why we are consulting on these proposals, as we look to transition to a fair, green and growing economy.”
Homes for Scotland – the ‘voice of Scotland’s home building industry’ – said it was reviewing the proposals but was not in a position to comment.
The consultation will be open until 12 December, 2023.