For the first time in the UK, faster and more reliable broadband is being delivered via drinking water pipes.

Nearly every resident and business in Papa Westray, Orkney can now receive broadband speeds comparable to less rural areas of Scotland through the Reach 100% (R100) programme.

Orkney-based internet service provider CloudNet, with Scottish government funding, used the community-owner water authority’s existing infrastructure as a more efficient and less disruptive alternative to conventional cable-laying methods. The fibre cable is delivered through a second pipe housed within the drinking water network.

The new broadband network, which allows CloudNet to offer a superfast service, can enable use cases such as home healthcare check-ups via video call, and remote monitoring of livestock via CCTV. It also supports visitor accommodation booking systems and tourism facilities on the island.

Remote sensors placed in the water pipe also provide a higher-tech way of monitoring the island’s water quality.

“Without this high speed connectivity, I wouldn’t be able to remotely monitor my farm or the water network for the island,” said Papa Westray Water Board supply engineer, Ian Cursiter.

“The real benefit in monitoring the water network for levels of usage, pressure and so on, is providing a much more efficient water system, which will ultimately be more environmentally friendly and cost effective to islanders.

“I’ve lived on Papa Westray my whole life and I’m delighted to see connectivity that allows the islanders to access the same facilities as those on the mainland.”

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Business minister Richard Lochhead further commented: “This ingenious approach represents a less disruptive way of delivering faster connectivity to all on Papa Westray.”

“This project showcases engineering creativity at its best and makes it easier for residents to do business and access essential services such as health and education.

“This will also help attract people to live and work on Papa Westray. Under the £600 million R100 programme, the Scottish Government is helping deliver a fair, green and growing economy for all our regions.”

Papa Westray became the first to use this approach successfully because the water system is owned by the community, streamlining the process of gaining permissions and causing less disruption to the island.