Satellite dishes could ‘enhance public services’ in Fair Isle

TWO SATELLITE dishes are being proposed for Fair Isle to improve the island’s telecommunications service.

The Pegasus Group has applied for planning permission to install two dishes – one 1.2m in size and the other 0.6m – to the existing telecoms tower at Ward Hill, Fair Isle.

It said the move would “enhance the delivery of vital public services” to the population of around 50 people on Fair Isle.

The application has been submitted on behalf of Cellnex UK Ltd. and Airwave Solutions Ltd.

“Our overall aim is to strengthen and improve the existing telecommunications infrastructure,” Pegasus planner Archie Roberts told Shetland News.

He added they wanted to “ultimately furnish the community with a broader, more reliable service”.

Roberts said they would be installing airwave dishes – also known as satellite dishes – to receive and transmit data.

This could include “voice communication, TV broadcasts, internet data, and more,” he said.

“They are particularly valuable in remote or rural locations where traditional infrastructures may not reach, guaranteeing the provision of such crucial services in those areas.

“The specific purpose of the dishes proposed for Fair Isle, Shetland fits into this essential role, designed to enhance the overall delivery of vital public services to the island’s inhabitants.”

Roberts added that, subject to planning approval, the dishes could be installed in approximately 6-12 months.