Superfast broadband is coming to Helensburgh - and the company behind the work has warned local residents and businesses of the disruption that may come with it.
Openreach says it has started work to bring an ultrafast full fibre broadband network to Helensburgh in what it calls a "one-in-a-generation" upgrade.
The firm said engineers have started work in the town bring "future-proof connectivity" to the area.
But Openreach has not been without controversy in Helensburgh, angering one resident recently by putting up a pole and obstructing the seaside view in the name of upgrades.
And last year Virgin Media enraged some locals with their work to install their own broadband improvements.
Openreach invited residents to sign up for updates on their work and check when services will be available to their properties.
Robert Thorburn, Openreach partnership director for Scotland, said: “We’re bringing ultrafast broadband to Helensburgh and letting local people know what to expect.
A pole was added in front of a Rhu home in the name of upgrades recently (Image: Contributed)
“This is a major infrastructure upgrade, so there will be more engineering teams, equipment and vans around town, and we're working hard to keep disruption to a minimum.
“Wherever possible, we’ll use our existing network of ducts and poles to avoid roadworks, new street furniture and disturbance.
READ MORE: Rhu home's view now has 9m Openreach telecommunications mast
"But there may be places where we need to install new poles, underground ducts and fibre cables because it’s the only way to make sure households get included in the upgrade.”
He added: “Helensburgh is part of our balanced build across Scotland. We want to make sure that progress is evenly spread and that people in all parts of the country can be online effortlessly and build opportunities in their community.
"Connecting everyone in Scotland to our fastest and most reliable broadband would result in a multi-billion pound economic boost.”
Openreach says its full fibre network currently reached more than 1.2 million properties and planned to roll out to 25 million homes and businesses by the end of 2026.
Morrison Telecom Services, which is working with Openreach to do the installation in Helensburgh, said they were "thrilled" to be rolling out the broadband.
Darren Kelly, the company's regional director, said: "This project will bring much needed improvements to broadband speeds for residents and businesses throughout the town.
"At Morrison Telecom Services we have a proven track record of delivering these often complex but rewarding projects for Openreach.
"The high level of interest from the community confirms the strong local desire for faster and more reliable connections.
"We're committed to minimising disruption during the installation process, working closely with the local authority and local communities.
"We appreciate your patience as we deliver Helensburgh’s new ultrafast fibre network with Openreach.”
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