Around 10,000 homes and businesses across rural Aberdeenshire could benefit from free ultrafast broadband installation through a project being delivered by Aberdeen-based connectivity provider Scot-Tel-Gould (STG).
Funded through the Aberdeen City Region Deal's Digital Challenge Fund, the Aberdeenshire Ultrafast Wireless Broadband Project uses STG's existing infrastructure at Mormond Hill and Alvah Hill to provide another broadband option across parts of the Turriff, Fraserburgh and Peterhead districts and surrounding countryside.
Addressing the rural broadband gap
Broadband choice remains limited in many rural communities, with properties often reliant on older copper connections where full fibre is unavailable.
Ofcom-derived data from January 2026 indicates that 45% of premises across the AB53 postcode district do not have access to broadband speeds of at least 30 Mbps. The equivalent figures are 22% across AB43 and 18% across AB42.
STG's fixed wireless network can deliver speeds of up to 900 Mbps, depending on availability at each property. The technology uses a small receiver to connect to a nearby mast, removing the need to lay a fibre cable all the way to the building.
Free installation for eligible properties
Funding covers installation costs for qualifying properties, with customers paying the applicable monthly charge for their chosen broadband service.
STG has undertaken detailed mapping of the project area and established that most identified properties have a clear line of sight to its infrastructure, meaning a separate survey will not usually be required.
Georgi Hristov, Technical Director at Scot-Tel-Gould, said:
“For too long, people in rural Aberdeenshire have had limited broadband options, particularly where full fibre isn't available.
“Our infrastructure is already in place, and this funding means eligible properties can now access ultrafast broadband without the installation cost. We're giving people more choice, backed by competitive monthly packages and the reassurance of dealing with a local team who understand the area and are here when they need support.”
Could your property qualify?
Whether you're looking for a faster connection at home or more dependable broadband for your business, STG can check which services are available at your address.
You don't need to have received a letter to enquire.
Find out more and check your property's eligibility at www.scot-tel-gould.co.uk/ultrafast.html or call 01224 471335.