Remaining digitally connected is now no problem in Boscombe.

Residents, visitors and businesses in and around the central area are now able to access fast free public Wi-Fi as part of ongoing plans to transform the town and create more jobs and homes for local people.

With speeds of up to 200MB per second the extremely fast Wi-Fi is three times faster than the average home broadband and is available to access in Boscombe Precinct (pedestrianised section of Christchurch Road) and westwards along Christchurch Road as far as Boscombe Crescent.

Last year Bournemouth was one of 101 towns across the UK to receive multi-million pound funding as part of the government’s Towns Funds programme. Set up as a community-led regeneration programme, Boscombe is the area of focus and will be transformed into a new urban neighbourhood.

The free Wi-Fi, provided by Smart Place, will give the community greater digital connectivity, and will unlock opportunities around skills, learning and employment. It also lays down the foundation for Boscombe to attract new start-ups, in particular those within the tech and creative industries whilst supporting existing businesses to grow.

Cllr Jane Kelly, lead member for Communities, BCP Council said: “I am pleased residents, visitors and businesses in Boscombe can now access free Wi-Fi. With so much of our day to day activity done online we want as many local people as possible to have access to the internet to promote inclusion, active and healthy lives and a vibrant community, where residents will have access to learning new skills and employment opportunities.

“This exciting development forms part of our ongoing regeneration of Boscombe. From job creation, skills and training to new homes, local transport improvements, better public realm and world leading digital connectivity, this is a significant moment for Boscombe, Bournemouth and the wider area.”

The free Wi-Fi can be accessed in Boscombe by selecting Smart Place Free Wi-Fi.