Report estimates superfast net value for Capital’s economy and business

HUNDREDS of jobs are to be created in the Capital as a result of BT’s recent investment in superfast broadband, a new report has revealed.

The report, by Regeneris Consulting, predicts the high-speed technology is capable of contributing hundreds of millions pounds to the local economy.

It estimates that over the next 15 years BT’s superfast broadband investment could give the economy of a typical city a £296 million boost and create around 430 new jobs and 320 new start-up businesses.

For a typical town the figures are expected to be in the region of £143m, 225 new jobs and 140 business start-ups. In Edinburgh more than 48,000 city premises currently have super-fast access, with plans to extend coverage to another 81,600 by spring 2013.

Brendan Dick, director of BT Scotland, said: “This report demonstrates the great benefits that BT’s activities, including its major investment in superfast broadband, are delivering for Edinburgh – and will continue to deliver in the years to come.

“BT is playing a vital role in Scotland’s prosperity and well-being, from the massive economic boost provided by our activities to the 9500 hours of volunteering activity carried out by BT’s people right across Scotland.”