The first publicly funded Shared Rural Network (SRN) Total Not Spot site has been switched on.

The new site delivers 4G to areas that previously had no mobile broadband coverage from any operator. The development provides 4G coverage from all UK mobile operators, significantly enhancing connectivity for residents, businesses, and tourists.

The mast on South Uist, an island in the Outer Hebrides, provides mobile broadband to people living and working in the villages of Balivanich, Grimsay, Liniclate, across almost the entirety of Benbecula, to more than 30km of the A865 and many kilometres of other smaller roads and tracks.

Whether visiting Ushenish Lighthouse, walking the Hebridean Way, or wildelife watching around the lochs, visitors on this part of the Outer Hebrides now have access to reliable 4G for the first time.

In addition, seafarers and fishermen passing through and working in The Little Minch between South Uist and Skye will also benefit.

The mast was built by Virgin Media O2 and will deliver commercial coverage from all four operators, including EE, Three and Vodafone.

Access to broadband is one of the top concerns for rural and remote businesses and communities – a lack of accesses can exacerbate social inequality and be a hurdle to business success, education, and upward mobility. Without broadband access, many are unable to start businesses, get a higher education, and can fall victim to social isolation.

The Shared Rural Network (SRN) was set up by the UK government to combat the rural broadband divide, but has faced significant delays and with schemes often facing criticism that they too often leave the most remote areas behind.

Even with continued rollout of broadband, environmental concerns have now arisen as masts cement themselves across some of Scotland’s most pristine environments.

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Still, for rural communities, broadband can be a deciding factor in their population retention, tourism attraction, and business viability.

“For too long, island communities in Scotland have struggled to get online while on the go. This milestone for the Shared Rural Network means vast swathes of Uist are now covered by 4G for the first time, boosting productivity for local businesses and safety for those in remote areas,” telecoms minister Chris Bryant said.

“South Uist is the first location to benefit from this new phase of the programme, which targets areas with no 4G coverage at all. We will continue to work with the mobile network operators to maximise the benefits of this rollout for local communities while preserving areas of natural beauty.”

Torcuil Crichton MP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, said: “I’m delighted that the Western Isles is the first area in the UK to have this publicly funded scheme switched on with the major mobile networks co-operating to fill in the blanks in the service.

“There are dips and black spots in mobile provision which islanders are familiar and frustrated with but by collaboration, and with government support, I hope that businesses, households and visitors to the islands can soon have full mobile broadband and 4G reception from Barra Head to the Butt of Ness.”