Virgin Media rolls out free Yorkshire wifi

UK cities Leeds and Bradford have been equipped with free wifi, as part of the government’s connected city initiative. Using small cell wireless network technology, Virgin Media Business has installed free public wifi service, expected to serve around 1.2 million people.

Virgin Media Business said the service will be powered by its fibre network but operated by its partner Global Reach Technology. The rollout follows a successful trial undertaken in the summer, which according to Virgin Media Business, proved that small cell architectures can significantly boost the capacity of both 3G and 4G networks.

“Small cells can transform the mobile experience by providing the connectivity needed to match the explosive broadband demand from the rapidly growing number of smartphones and tablets,” said Kevin Baughan, director of wireless at Virgin Media Business. “In Leeds and Bradford, we’re working with both the local authorities and mobile operators to put in place the infrastructure that will give residents, consumers and businesses access to the wireless connectivity that they need.”

“These projects in Leeds and Bradford are an important step towards making the vision of super-connected cities a reality and enabling future prosperity and innovation.”