Manchester now offers the second largest WiFi network in the country, as the latest phase of its planned extension nears completion.
The _FreebeeMCR WiFi network – which offers 30 minutes of free use per day to city centre residents and visitors – now has more than 80 on-street access points at locations within the inner ring road.
The expansion aims to make sure that people can access the internet via their smartphones, tablets and computers as they move around the city centre.
Around 30,000 people have taken advantage of _FreebeeMCR to date.
Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “The move to extend free WiFi across the city centre forms part of our ambition to become a world-leading digital city by 2020. Improving internet access for our residents, visitors and businesses brings huge social benefits and also helps to boost the city’s economy.”
The next planned stage of expansion will take the free service beyond the city centre to selected district high streets.
_FreebeeMCR is run by communications infrastructure and media services company Arqiva, at no cost to the city. Paul Hellings, Director of WiFi at Arqiva, said: “Providing the connectivity to cities like Manchester affords both businesses and residents alike, economic and social benefits. Staying connected when out and about is nothing short of a necessity for many of us and we’re priding ourselves on the wireless infrastructure we’re bringing to UK cities.
Access points are now available on the following streets:-
Albert Square
Auburn Street
Bridge Street
Cross Street
Deansgate
Exchange Square (The Triangle)
Fountain Street
John Dalton Street
King Street
King Street West
Lower Mosley Street
Market Stret
Mount Street
Mosley Street
Oxford Road
Oxford Street
Peter Street
Piccadilly
Portland Street
Princess Street
Quay Street
Shudehill
Spring Gardens
St Mary’s Gate
St Mary’s Street
St Peter’s Square
Watson Street
Whitworth Street West
Windmill Street
Withy Grove
York Street
