Access to free wifi across identifiable parts of Birmingham City centre has been announced as part of plans to improve broadband coverage in the city before July 15.
The” Next Generation Wireless Connectivity” Contract would see a wholesale broadband provider given permission to use city street furniture (lamp-posts and CCTV columns) to enhance 3G and roll out further 4G capacity to mobile broadband users.
In return, the council will receive an income for the access rights to use the street furniture. As for citizens and local businesses, they will gain access to a variety of online services, including social media, interactive gaming, online learning and educational opportunities and many of the City Council’s digital services on the move.
Cllr James McKay, Cabinet Member for a Green, Safe and Smart City at Birmingham City Council, said: “This project will dramatically accelerate mobile broadband investment in the city.
“In recent years, we have seen an exponential growth in demand for connectivity with smart phones and tablet computers becoming everyday items driving significant increases in the volume of data across mobile networks.
“This project puts us in a prime position to meet this growing demand and ensures that Birmingham will be one of the best connected cities in the UK.
The initial roll-out of the unlimited free wifi would see access made available at key locations across the city centre where people congregate outside, such as Victoria Square, New Street, Moor Street, High Street, St Philip’s Cathedral and the new Library of Birmingham.
By Aneesa Malik
