Connecting Speyside: R100 SBVS delivers life-changing broadband to rural Moray
Discover how the R100 Scottish Broadband Voucher Scheme and WiFi Scotland brought gigabit-capable broadband to 43 rural homes in Moray, transforming lives with fast, reliable internet access.
In the Speyside area near Mulben, Moray, a group of rural households have experienced a dramatic transformation in digital connectivity thanks to the Scottish Government’s R100 Scottish Broadband Voucher Scheme (SBVS) and the expertise ofWiFi Scotland.
As part of a group voucher project connecting 43 premises, homes that once endured slow, unreliable internet now enjoy full fibre broadband with speeds of up to 1,000 Megabits per second (Mbps).
For a retired couple in Craigellachie, the difference has been profound. Previously, their best speed was just 0.5 Mbps, making essential tasks like online banking almost impossible. Mobile coverage was also unreliable, often forcing them to drive a mile away to complete online transactions.
Today, they enjoy their gigabit-capable connection, enabling smooth access to online services, streaming and video calls.
“It’s undeniably life-changing, and a relief. We can now manage our affairs efficiently, enjoy streaming without buffering, and stay in touch with our grandchildren hundreds of miles away. As we get older, remote access to healthcare and services is vital, and now it’s possible.”
For local neighbour Jenni Lathrope, the upgrade has opened new opportunities for her family and future business plans:
"Before, it could take half an hour to download an app, and if one person was online, the internet disappeared for everyone else. Now we have full fibre and it’s like a new world. I can attend webinars while my children do homework and stream TV at the same time. I’m even looking into starting my own business, which would have been impossible before.”
Even properties in challenging locations, such as 1,000 feet up Ben Aigan, benefited from WiFi Scotland’s project. Glyn Ashton praised the installation and reliability:
“They took care of everything, even with the difficult route to our property. The system is robust, and video NHS appointments now work without fear of losing the link. It has ended the dreaded buffering and given us confidence in staying connected.”
Residents also commended WiFi Scotland’s professionalism and the affordability of the solution: “They went above and beyond to ensure everything was installed quickly and reliably. We feel our service is in safe hands.”
Angus Munro, WiFi Scotland partner, said: “Working with the R100 SBVS has allowed us to deliver full fibre broadband to some of Scotland’s most rural areas. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact reliable, high-speed connectivity is having on people’s daily lives.”
This project demonstrates how R100 SBVS and suppliers like WiFi Scotland are bridging Scotland’s digital divide, enabling rural communities to access essential services like healthcare and education as well as business opportunities.
Find out more about the R100 programme and SBVS.