Swindon to be UK's first Wi-Fi town

Posted on 19 Nov 2009 at 08:29

Swindon is planning to offer free wireless internet access to all its residents.

Swindon Borough Council, working with private company aQovia under a joint venture called Digital City UK, is going to offer free wireless internet access to all its residents using a town-wide WiFi network. Residents will need a unique access code before they can use the network. Visitors to Swindon will be able to use the WiFi network by purchasing airtime on a pay-as-you-go basis.

The free service will have usage restrictions, but the council also plans to offer a less-restricted, paid-for 20MB/s service. The paid-for service will apparently be cheaper than services from commercial broadband providers and residents will be able to trial the paid-for service for free for three months before deciding whether or not to subscribe.

The council plans to use the network to provide real-time information on home electricity usage and street-wide air quality monitoring. It notes that it will also be able to carry free voice calls and could be used by health professionals to carry out consultations and remote medical procedures or examinations.

“This is a truly groundbreaking partnership which will have real benefits for everyone living in Swindon,” said council leader Rod Bluh.

“Not only will residents in the Borough be able to access the internet for free, the Council and its partners will be able to use the technology to provide cutting edge services to the areas or individuals who need them.”

Author: Alan Lu / Simon Aughton

Get more reviews, tutorials and in-depth advice, every month with Computer Shopper.
Click here to try 3 issues for £1

< Previous News : Software Next >

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to Login or Register to comment.