Westminster City Council is launching a two-month trial aimed at enhancing access to free wi-fi in central London.
This initiative features a pilot program that allows both residents and visitors to connect to various public wi-fi networks throughout Westminster with a single login.
Dubbed Connected London WiFi, the service is designed to provide a “seamless roaming experience” in an effort to address issues of “digital inequality.”
The Labour-led council expressed optimism, stating that “with ongoing support from the mayor of London and possibly other boroughs, we aspire to extend this wi-fi network throughout the entirety of London and even beyond.”
As part of the trial, QR codes have been installed at 50 locations, including businesses, public areas, and cultural sites that already provide free wi-fi.
Individuals who scan the QR code will gain access through a unified profile.
Once logged in, users’ devices will automatically connect to the internet when they enter the range of any participating wi-fi provider during the trial.
After the pilot program concludes, the council will assess the feasibility of expanding the network across the capital and moving away from QR codes.
Geoff Barraclough, who is the cabinet member for planning and economic development in the borough, remarked, “We’ve all experienced challenges with fast mobile connections in central London, particularly in crowded locations such as Oxford Street and Covent Garden.”
He noted that many individuals depend on public wi-fi, which can often be cumbersome and challenging to access.
With the introduction of the single sign-on network, he anticipates both tourists and London residents will enjoy a more straightforward connection process.
Howard Dawber, London’s deputy mayor for business and growth, added that Connected London WiFi is a crucial advancement in enhancing digital access throughout the capital.
