‘They are there for a reason’ - North-west councillor urges public to respond to BT consultation on proposed removal of 19 phone boxes across Sutherland
A public consultation has been launched on proposals to remove 110 public payphones across the Highland region — including several located in some of Sutherland’s most remote and isolated communities.
Telecommunications giant BT announced today that the phones have been assessed under Ofcom’s Review of the Telephony Universal Service Obligation and have been deemed no longer essential.
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On the west coast, kiosks at Drumbeg, Lochinver (near Kirkaig Chalets), Achmelvich, Stoer, Kylesku, Kinlochbervie and Elphin are among those proposed for removal, with far north boxes in Talmine, Durness, Smoo and Rhiconich also at threat.
Phones boxes in Ardgay, Bonar Bridge, Brora, Golspie and Helmsdale could also be at risk.
A full list of the payphones proposed for removal can be found here, with BT inviting public representations until the consultation closes on July 15, 2025.
Highland Council is now urging residents to submit comments highlighting the potential impact the closures could have.
For rural communities in Sutherland, a local telephone box can provide a vital link in emergencies, particularly during periods of severe weather when mobile networks can fail.
North-west Sutherland councillor Hugh Morrison has expressed concern that BT's decision-making may not fully reflect the realities of rural life.
“I think they are worth saving because they all have a place in the area, and are in those areas for a reason,” he said.
“We have lost a lot already in the previous campaigns so there aren’t that many left. They will all go one day, I presume, but hopefully not yet.
“They come up for removal most years, but I think we still need them in some rural areas.
“Mobile phones are great if you have a signal, but as we all know signals go down and that’s usually in bad weather when you maybe need a phone in an emergency.
“People should get out there and let BT know their thoughts. I will be bringing this to the community council as well.”
Submissions can be made directly to BT by emailing btp.authorisation.team@bt.com.
Following the close of the consultation, BT has committed to taking account of the representations made before reaching a final decision.
Their conclusions, along with justifications for any closures, will be published on their website at www.bt.com/payphones/service.
