The Scottish Government has announced a new scheme to accelerate the rollout of 5G, the programme will help identify public buildings where masts can be installed.

Ministers said this will increase 4G and 5G mobile connectivity.

The scheme, part of the Infralink programme, is led by the Scottish Futures Trust and is funded by the Scotland 5G Centre.

Scottish Government connectivity minister, Paul Wheelhouse, welcomed the “game-changing” move.

“The changes in the way we use digital technology to stay connected over the past 12 months have shown how vital reliable digital connectivity is in all of our lives,” he said.

“Continued investment in mobile infrastructure, and the tools to remove barriers and make collaboration straightforward for all parties involved, is essential to Scotland’s social and economic recovery from the pandemic.”

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A total of 124 mobile masts are due to be installed in an effort to improve coverage in rural areas of Scotland.

Director of Mobile UK, Hamish MacLeod, which represents the UK’s mobile operators, said Infralink is a “welcome and innovative programme”.

Infralink programme lead at Scottish Futures Trust, Sarah Eynon, said the scheme “offers a win-win situation for both the public sector and operators, but Scottish citizens and businesses will reap the ultimate rewards”.