Ryder Cup bosses are to upgrade Auchterarder’s mobile connection to 4G ahead of September’s competition, with the event branded “the most mobile-friendly Ryder Cup in history”.
Residents and visitors will have access to the cutting-edge technology, although it is unclear if it will remain in place after the tournament ends.
The move comes as mobile phones are to be allowed into the venue for the first time, though visitors will be expected to keep them on silent and will only be able to make calls in dedicated areas.
Organisers hope the ability to use apps and surf the web during play will enhance spectators’ experiences of the Ryder Cup. The enhanced service is being spearheaded by the Scottish Government.
A spokesman said: “This is to be the most mobile-friendly Ryder Cup in history. Mobile phones can be used in the venue through wi-fi as well as through 3G and 4G mobile networks.
“The Scottish Government is working closely with mobile network operators to provide enhanced coverage, which will include 3G and 4G and additional capacity to cater for the estimated 45,000 visitors per day as well as existing mobile users.
“In addition, partners are working hard to ensure visitors are connected en route to Gleneagles.”
Ryder Cup operations director Antonia Beggs said: “Our aim is to make the 2014 Ryder Cup the best ever for spectators.
“It was a natural step to allow mobile phones into the event.
“Spectators will have the opportunity to use mobile apps on-course to follow the action and you will be able to make calls from parts of the tented village, as well as at dedicated sites elsewhere.
“Of course, this policy comes with strict rules about the use of phones on-course.
“In simple terms, we will expect phones to be on silent and our marshals and volunteers will be briefed to monitor mobile phone use, particularly in earshot of the players.”
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser welcomed the move to bring an advanced service to an area, which has been dogged by mobile phone issues, with no Vodafone signal for more than three weeks.
He said: “Rural areas often receive the thin edge of the wedge when it comes to digital services and this move demonstrates that if the right investment is made, rural areas can also receive 21st-Century digital infrastructure.”