Hi-tech street units in Newcastle offer ultra-fast Wi-Fi and device charging

BT installs first seven Street Hub 2.0 units in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, providing Wi-Fi, free calls, wayfinding information and rapid device charging, with the potential to boost 4G and 5G for free emergency calls.  

In a modern alternative to the traditional street corner payphone, telecommunications company BT is rolling out improved mobile and Wi-Fi connections across the UK. Newcastle is just the latest to benefit: other cities included in the programme include Sheffield, Birmingham, Nottingham and Glasgow. 

Photo courtesy of BT

As well as the technological support for local communities, the scheme offers support in other ways. For example, BT is donating up to £7.5m of outdoor advertising space on the new digital units to local small businesses. 

Newcastle-based bespoke urban delivery company Bud Couriers is one of the first to benefit, having won a competition.    

James Tyer, owner of Bud Couriers, says: ‘The BT Street Hubs have been a blessing for my small business. This month, with the introduction of the clean air zone in Newcastle city centre, these adverts are positioned perfectly to reach those affected by the issue.  

‘Using these boards, we are able to showcase our role as an authority in Newcastle’s urban sustainable logistics.’ 

Michael Smy, Head of Street at BT, adds: ‘Street Hubs provide communities with the improved Wi-Fi and mobile connectivity that is now such a central part of everyday life. 

‘Bringing the Hubs to Newcastle not only allows us to provide the same benefits as traditional payphones, but also offer enhanced and future-proofed technology for the future. 

‘Gifting free advertising to small businesses in the city also means we are able to play our part in supporting its economy.’

In related news:

TalkTalk now most complained about landline and broadband provider, says Ofcom

27 recommendations for local authorities to become connectivity enablers