Free Tunbridge Wells Wi-Fi To Leave Residents Anything But Disgusted

Visitors and residents in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, will soon be able to access a free Wi-Fi network in the town centre, which it is hoped will boost internet connectivity and improve the tourist experience.

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has partnered with MLL Telecom to offer the network, which has been deployed at no extra cost to the authority, primarily using street furniture such as CCTV cameras.

Access will be free for the first three months, after which registered users will have 15 free minutes per day with the option of purchasing additional time through a pay-as-you-go service. There will also be permanent free access to local information.

Disgusted, Tunbridge Wells

“This is an exciting project which we think will offer lots of benefits to users and be very helpful for our visitors,” says Jane March, the council cabinet member responsible for the project.

The first phase of the project is expected to go live in January before extending to the wider town centre a few months later. It has been suggested the partnership with MLL Telecom could result in improved broadband in rural areas and business centres.

“Our aim is to work with local communities to serve their needs, so we’re delighted to be able to work with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council on this initiative,” adds Dave Pinnington, director of regional networks, MLL Telecom. “Many studies put free public Wi-Fi at the top of tourist wish lists, so we hope this initiative will help enhance the Tunbridge Wells visitor economy. We look forward to continuing to work with the Council over the coming months to further extend superfast broadband services in the region.”

A number of towns and cities have launched public Wi-Fi networks, including York, Birmingham and Cardiff, while Edinburgh plans its own wireless service as part of the government’s super connected cities initiative.

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