Newcastle plugs into city-wide free Wi-Fi

A North East city is set to become one of the UK’s most connected urban centres thanks to a new digital initiative.

Newcastle City Council has partnered with connectivity specialist Purple to roll out a city-wide free Wi-Fi network, giving residents, students and visitors seamless access across council buildings, gyms, libraries, public spaces and commercial venues.

The system is powered by Purple’s ConneX App, which allows users to log in once and roam freely across hundreds of hotspots without repeat sign-ins, tackling frustrations often linked to public Wi-Fi.

To mark the launch, Purple is running a city-wide digital ‘Egg Hunt’ with £5000 up for grabs, while also offering £120,000 worth of free Wi-Fi hardware and licences to 1000 local businesses.

Gavin Wheeldon, chief executive of Purple, said: “Newcastle is home to more than 53,000 businesses, including one of the fastest-growing SME sectors in the UK. 

“Local businesses face mounting pressures from rising costs, and this initiative arms them with the digital intelligence to attract more customers and compete in a tough market.”

The project aims to boost digital inclusion and provide businesses with valuable insights, laying the foundations for Newcastle’s future as a leading UK “smart city”.

Councillor Paul Frew, Newcastle City Council cabinet member for resources and performance, added: “Even with near-universal broadband coverage, not everyone can afford reliable access on the go. 

“We’ve used Government funding to improve our free public Wi-Fi offer to improve performance for residents, and this new partnership will enable us to further tackle digital poverty and give residents free access in more places.” 

“This project is about fairness as much as technology.

“Seamless, free connectivity helps level the playing field, ensuring no one in Newcastle is left behind in the digital age. 

“It also supports our ambitions to be more evidence-led and data-driven. 

“The insights gained by working with Purple will allow us to better understand people’s use of public Wi-Fi and how we can deliver the best possible service for residents, businesses and visitors.

“This collaboration represents a significant step in the city’s ongoing commitment to furthering our reputation as a leader in digital innovation, connected tourism and regional growth, while encouraging widespread adoption of secure, city-wide connectivity.”

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