The Borough’s former CCTV radio system has been replaced with a new, digital system

December 20, 2017 by Southend Borough Council

Public WiFi boost for retail and leisure businesses this Christmas

Wednesday 20 December 2017

More than 15,000 users have registered for Southend-on-Sea’s new free public WiFi network, providing an extra boost for retail and leisure businesses in the all-important run up to Christmas.

IntechnologyWiFi launched the seamless service this autumn in partnership with the council, to support the growth of the seaside town’s digital economy.

The additional connectivity is in line with the growing trend of shoppers relying on their mobiles to decide which stores to visit to buy what they need. According to Google, searches for “where to buy” have increased by 85 per cent over the last two years.

From 21 December, Christmas shoppers will increasingly turn to local stores to get what they need, said the search engine giant.

“Consumers use their mobiles as personal assistants when doing their shopping,” said Natalie Duffield, chief executive of IntechnologyWiFi.

“They can quickly and easily connect to our free public WiFi network in Southend-on-Sea town centre.

“This digital upgrade to the high street will help retail and leisure businesses in their most important trading period.”

IntechnologyWiFi rolled out free public WiFi in October after winning a 10-year concession with the local authority, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council.

The WiFi extends as far as the end of Southend Pier and has won praise from celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, who tweeted: “Nice one team. Big Love JOx.”

Latest figures show that more than 15,000 people have registered for the service.

Cllr Trevor Byford, Executive Councillor for Technology, says: “I am delighted to hear that there has been such a positive response to the free public WiFi network, with over 15,000 users registering already.

“This great service, which is being delivered at no cost to the council or local taxpayer, is already improving the overall visitor experience to Southend High Street, central seafront and Pier, Leigh Broadway and Hamlet Court Road. I hope that local people and visitors continue to make good use of it when they are in the area and we can add to the 15,000 in the new Year.”

Users are able to enjoy unlimited free browsing without running up large bills for data usage. Visit www.southendfreewifi.com for more information.

In addition to the free public WiFi, Intechnology WiFi has launched a clever lifestyle app called Citi-Wise.

This offers daily highlights, including places to eat and drink, daytime and evening events, museums and attractions, as well as a comprehensive local overview of Southend.

Find out more and download Citi-Wise at www.citi-wise.com