More than 20 buildings in Derby will be transformed into free wi-fi hotspots, it was announced today.
As part of the Government’s plans to see over 1000 public buildings in cities across the UK offering free wi-fi, residents and visitors in Derby will be able to connect at locations such as the City’s Quad, Magistrates’ Court, Council House, Markeaton Park and Derby Bus Station.
The programme is part of an £150m investment to transform the digital capability of UK cities, making them even more attractive places to live, do business, visit and invest in. Millions and millions of visitors, citizens and business men and women can take advantage of this huge boost to free connectivity in the UK.
The Chamber of Commerce for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire gave its backing to the scheme. Chief Executive George Cowcher said:
“Access to high-speed, reliable broadband is absolutely crucial to the development, growth and success of our businesses.
“Greater access to free wi-fi will mean easier connectivity for businesses with people out and about in the city and create opportunities for potential customers to contact firms without having to connect to the internet through their mobile network provider, which can be costly if they don’t have an unlimited data contract.”
Marketing Derby Managing Director, John Forkin said:
“Public internet connections that are fast and free are becoming an essential part of any city toolkit for residents, workers and visitors.
“We have been receiving very positive reports on hotspots in central Derby, an important addition to our hi-tech credentials.”
Over the coming months, libraries, museums, civic centres, transport hubs, sporting complexes and other buildings around the UK will begin to offer free wi-fi – some have already gone live, and the remainder are all on track to be up and running as soon as March 2015.
Demonstrating the ongoing transformation of the UK’s digital landscape, this project will ensure our cities boast world-class connectivity and are equipped to deal with the increasing demands of the digital age.
Digital Economy Minister Ed Vaizey said:
“The digital landscape of the UK is undergoing a period of tremendous improvement and is all part of the Government’s long term economic plan. For business, visitors and the UK public, accessing wi-fi in our cities is absolutely vital. I’m delighted this government scheme is on track. These free hotspots will be instrumental in making UK cities even more attractive as places to not only do business, but to visit as well.”
