RESIDENTS, visitors and businesses in Boscombe are now able to access fast free public Wi-Fi.

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 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.

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, BCP Council's communities lead 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.