Birmingham city centre is to get a free Wi-Fi network and it’s launching this September.
According to thedrum.com, Birmingham City Council and Virgin Media Business have struck a deal together to provide free Wi-Fi to the city. The service will be available in Victoria Square, New Street, High Street, St Philip’s Cathedral, Moor Street and the plaza in front of the Library of Birmingham.
Birmingham isn’t the only UK city to strike a deal with Virgin Media Business, thanks to the super connected cities initiative launched by the government, Leeds and Bradford have also partnered with the provider.
Birmingham City Council has been trying to gain the city free Wi-Fi since November 2011 but it was struggling to find a provider.
Virgin Media Business will also be trialling ‘small cells’ next year. These cells are placed on street furniture, such as lampposts and benches, and help boost mobile data coverage to help keep up with demand, reports techweekeurope.co.uk.
Councillor James McKay said: “This project will dramatically accelerate mobile broadband investment in the city. It will bring enhanced high-speed mobile broadband coverage for more people, and the free Virgin Media Business Wi-Fi zone in the city centre will help bridge the digital divide for those who are otherwise unable to access such services.”
