All of Swindons 186,000 residents are to be offered free wireless internet.

A local businessman Rikki Hunt came up with the idea along with the local council and the aid of a technology company. It will be funded by a combination of public and private money. There will be 1400 secure access points fitted around the town very much like the ones used in homes at the moment but with a much higher performance. Line rental will be free and there will be no connection charge although usage will be limited. 20Mb upgrades are available but there will be a charge for this. This upgrade scheme will hopefully enable the council to make a profit or at least break even.

If the scheme is successful it could be introduced in other towns around the country.