MORE than 100 families in a Glasgow high rise are getting ready to surf the net with the introduction of high speed wi-fi access points throughout the building.

Tenants in a block of flats in Knightswood are leading the way in what is the first large scale project of its type in Scotland and one of the first across Europe.

The block in Kirkton Avenue is owned by Glasgow Housing Association which has linked up with the Scottish Government and broadband provider BT to give tenants affordable wi-fi.

The pioneering trial which telecommunication bosses at BT say could be duplicated across the UK will see tenants in 138 flats being offered a new tablet which can connect to wi-fi access points installed in the high rise.

The digital project was launched by Scotland's Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs Fiona Hyslop following £70,000 of Holyrood funding.

She said: "This digital wi-fi pilot will provide an affordable and sustainable broadband service to the residents of this block at Kirkton Avenue.

"The partnership approach demonstrated here reflects the Scottish Government's vision for Scotland being a truly digital nation.

"Our vision is not just about delivering world class infrastructure, it is also about ensuring that people have the confidence and skills to get online and enjoy the benefits of the digital age."

BT Scotland director Brendan Dick added: "The idea of giving tenants the ability to get online is one that many housing associations across the UK are considering, but here in Glasgow it is a reality.

"We're proud to be working with the Scottish Government and GHA to connect people digitally and help them build a better future."

GHA chairman Gordon Sloan said: "We believe that getting online and having access to the internet can change people's lives for the better. Getting online from home, at a time and place that suits our tenants, can improve job prospects, reduce bills and also benefit their studies."

gordon.thomson@ eveningtimes.co.uk