Thus will be providing Wi-Fi access through a high-speed Internet connection delivered via radio and will utilise Thus’ MPLS network core to create an open access hotspot in Jedburgh town centre.
Jedburgh, located in the Borders region, is one of Scotland’s Gateway towns. It is hoped the scheme will provide a tourism boost by attracting visitors and business travellers to the town centre, which Thus hopes will result in increased footfall and spend.
The trial is being coordinated by the Scottish Borders New Ways Partnership in conjunction with Jedburgh Alliance.
The launch of the open access broadband trial in the town centre coincides with the launch of the town’s new website. These developments are a result of wide consultations with the council, the Merchants Association and other Alliance members who are seeking to work cooperatively to be creative and innovative in developing ways to not only promote the town economically, but also as a fantastic place to visit for business or leisure. We are confident that the trial will be a boost for tourism and for the many small and diverse businesses which are the fabric of the economy in rural communities, said George Burt of Jedburgh Alliance.
The Wi-Fi hotspot will use the Pathfinder South network, which was set up with the aim of delivering network connectivity to schools and public sector organisations across the south of Scotland.
Phil Male, chief operating officer, Thus, said: The deployment of the Pathfinder South network has created spin off benefits for individuals, companies and wider communities alike in terms of what broadband services they can now access. Open access Wi-Fi in a traditional, rural community modernises the infrastructure as well as the image of the town and will improve the visibility and viability of small businesses and tourist services in the area.
