Free WiFi network across central London launched by Westminster Council
Free WiFi network across central London launched by Westminster Council
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Free WiFI across the borough of Westminster is being made easier to access as part of a two-month trial supported by mayor Sir Sadiq Khan. Westminster City Council is piloting a new system which will enable the borough’s residents and visitors to connect to a range of different public WiFI networks using just one log-in.
The service is called Connected London WiFi. It aims to create a “seamless roaming experience” and to tackle “digital inequality” among Londoners by providing easy-to-access, free internet connectivity. The Labour-run council has said that “with the continued support from the Mayor of London - and potentially other London boroughs - we hope to roll out this WiFi network across the whole of London, and potentially beyond”.
As part of the trial, QR codes have been placed at the various Westminster businesses, public spaces and cultural attractions which already offer free WiFi access. Instead of having to sign up to each network individually, scanning the QR code allows users to log in with just one profile. The user’s device will then automatically connect to the internet when brought within range of any other WiFi operator in the trial.
The 50 locations covered by the trial include Westminster’s various public libraries, street markets like Berwick Street Market, the pedestrianised area at Strand Aldwych, and Paddington Recreation Ground. After the trial, as well as looking at whether it will be possible to roll the network out across the capital, efforts will also be focused “on a solution that moves away from using a QR code”, the council said.
