Residents and businesses on the Orkney island of Papa Westray are experiencing a groundbreaking shift in connectivity as they begin receiving internet access through their water network. This initiative is believed to be a first of its kind in the UK, utilizing the community-owned water system to deliver full fibre broadband across the island.
This innovation opens up a wealth of opportunities for the approximately 90 residents, enabling activities that were previously unfeasible, such as remote medical consultations and online gaming. The broader goal is to make Papa Westray more attractive to potential residents and workers, while also serving as a model for extending broadband access to other isolated areas.
Historically, Papa Westray has struggled with inadequate internet connectivity, often facing slow or nonexistent speeds that hindered daily life. The eight-month installation process, executed by local contractors CloudNet, has now transformed this landscape.
The broadband connection begins with a radio link from the neighboring isle of Westray and is then distributed throughout Papa Westray via the water pipes. Notably, the fibre cable runs through a second pipe within the drinking water network, which has proven to be an efficient and less disruptive alternative compared to traditional cable installation methods.
Ian Cursiter, a lifelong resident and Water Board supply engineer, shared his excitement about this advancement. He now enjoys access to facilities comparable to those available on the mainland, allowing him to monitor cattle remotely from his home.
Cursiter highlighted the advantages of this digital setup over older systems, explaining that it significantly improves his ability to oversee calving without disturbing the animals. His experience underscores how this technology not only enhances convenience but also improves animal welfare by reducing stress during critical periods.
The successful implementation of this project may pave the way for similar solutions in other remote communities. CloudNet’s managing director, Greg Whitton, expressed pride in delivering such an innovative project in one of the UK’s most isolated locations. He emphasized that using existing water networks allows for efficient deployment without extensive excavation.
Whitton acknowledged that challenges arose during design and installation but noted valuable lessons learned from collaborating with islanders.
As technology continues to evolve, there is hope that more rural areas can benefit from creative approaches like this one. The achievement in Papa Westray stands as a testament to what innovation can accomplish when communities come together to solve pressing connectivity issues.
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