With the completion of its latest full fibre network build in the Borders area, Scottish independent broadband provider, GoFibre, has hosted John Lamont MP at the Galashiels Transport Interchange to discuss the successful broadband connection for Borders Buses.
The visit underscored the importance of reliable, high-quality internet for businesses in the Borders, with more than 25,000 homes and businesses in the region now able to access GoFibre’s network.
More than 500 business customers are now connected to the network alongside Borders Buses, a key player in regional transport.
Operating extensively across the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, Borders Buses not only serves essential routes to Carlisle, Berwick and Wooler, but also works closely with Scottish Borders Council to serve vital school transport services to local children.
During the visit, Mr. Lamont MP met with Borders Buses Operations and Systems Supervisor, Paul Borthwick, to hear how connection to the full fibre broadband network has boosted day-to-day operations and capabilities, crucial in today’s fast-paced digital world.
Paul Borthwick, Operations and Systems Supervisor at Borders Buses, said: “Previously, our broadband service was terrible and it really hindered our operations. GoFibre has completely transformed our connectivity, providing us with reliable, high quality connections that have made our business operations far more efficient and smooth.
“We need it for the business; it’s essential for running the depot properly. And, with so many video calls these days, having the speed and stability that GoFibre provides is crucial for seamless communication! After seeing the success in our Galashiels depot, we can’t wait to extend this service to our transport exchange to further boost our operational efficiency.”
John Lamont MP for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk, said: “It’s inspiring to see how a reliable broadband connection can transform a business.
“Borders Buses is an excellent example of how modern infrastructure can drive efficiency and improve service delivery, benefiting both the company and the public.
“This partnership is a testament to the positive impact that improved broadband infrastructure can have on regional businesses and I’m excited to see the repeated benefits as GoFibre continues to expand its services.”
Sam Calvert, Chief Revenue Officer at GoFibre, said: “GoFibre and Borders Buses are joining forces to keep people connected in the Borders – whether digitally, or getting out and about.
“As a company rooted in the Borders, it’s incredibly rewarding to witness the positive impact our broadband service has had on a cornerstone business like Borders Buses.
“GoFibre’s mission is to deliver reliable, high speed internet to underserved communities, and this partnership with Borders Buses illustrates how robust digital infrastructure can transform everyday operations.
“We are dedicated to supporting local businesses empowering them with the essential tools they need to thrive in today’s digital world, demonstrated by our success in reaching out to business”
GoFibre’s impact extends beyond Borders Buses, with over 25,000 premises ready for connection across Galashiels, Kelso, Melrose, Selkirk, Hawick, Jedburgh and Duns, and 13,000 premises in North Northumberland, including Wooler, Seahouses, Cornhill-on-Tweed, Belford, Berwick-upon-Tweed and Alnwick.
Throughout the network expansion, GoFibre has also placed great importance on supporting rural economic development, and was recently highly commended for its exceptional contribution to business at the Scottish Borders Business Excellence Awards.
Committed to recruiting local talent who live and work in the communities it is connecting – one fifth of the company’s workforce lives in the Scottish Borders – GoFibre works to develop a deep-rooted understanding of each area’s unique needs, ensuring that customers and communities remain at the heart of its business.
Choosing GoFibre’s full fibre broadband means Borders and North Northumberland residents and businesses can access up to 1 Gbps speeds, significantly enhancing their ability to use multiple devices without lag and quickly download large files in seconds.
While the median average internet speed in the UK is 73.21Mbps, as of 2023, GoFibre’s full fibre connection provides speeds of more than double this on its entry-level package.
Residents and businesses can buy now or register for updates in their area by visiting gofibre.co.uk/register.
