Aviemore town centre now has access to free Wi-Fi thanks to a project funded by the Inverness and Highland City Region Deal.
The Highland Council led project, called “High-Fi” is to deliver free Wi-Fi to 14 highland towns in a bid to stimulate economic growth and digital inclusion across the region.
Chair of the Badenoch and Strathspey Committee, Councillor Bill Lobban said: “This project is fantastic news for Aviemore and I am sure it will be welcomed by everyone.
“Digital connectivity is essential these days for daily life and the free access to Wi-Fi will enable visitors and locals to make the most of local businesses by checking what’s on, where to visit, opening hours, accommodation and prices, as well as job opportunities and keeping in touch with family and friends.
“High-Fi will be great for posting photos of the area on social media and helping to promote Aviemore, and all this region offers, to the wider world. I would also like to see this fantastic new facility rolled out across the rest of the Strath as soon as possible.”
The project is entering its third phase where Wi-Fi will be rolled out in Alness, Dingwall, Dornoch, Drumnadrochit, Fort Augustus, Fort William, Invergordon, Nairn, Portree, Tain, Thurso, Ullapool and Wick.
Easy access to digital connectivity is seen to be of the highest priority to ensure the Highlands remains competitive in the tourism market.
UK Government minister Lord Duncan said: “Digital connectivity isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. The roll out of free Wi-Fi will help locals and businesses as well as making it easier for tourists visiting picturesque locations such as Aviemore to share their experiences with people back home.
“I am pleased that the UK Government was able to directly support this essential project as part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal funding.”
