UK Govt. and Church of England Join Forces to Improve Wi-Fi

Ron Perillo / 7 years ago

Church and State Team Up

The UK Government has formed a partnership with the Church of England in order to improve Wi-Fi signals across the UK. It aims to use the Churches’ spires and buildings for placing wireless transmitters. In addition, aerials, satellite dishes and fiber cables will be run through church buildings. The Department for Digital Culture, Media and Sport states that there are already 120 cases of mobile services across UK parishes. The Chelmsford and Norwich dioceses already support the program, However, the UK government hopes more come to aid in improving digital infrastructure.

Who Benefits from This Project?

The project aims to improve signal especially those in rural areas. “Our work has significantly improved rural access to high-speed broadband,” said Rev. Stephen Cottrell, the Bishop of Chelmsford in a press statement. “Encouraging churches to improve connectivity will help tackle two of the biggest issues rural areas face – isolation and sustainability.”

Most of the churches in England are in rural areas. Specifically, 65% of Anglican churches and 66% of parishes. Plus their central location in town makes them ideal for setting up signal boosters.

Those concerned about the project affecting architectural and historical significance of these old buildings do not need to worry. The guidance rules for the project states that these cannot be affected in anyway during installation and use. Moreover, the government is also seeking to form similar accords with other faith communities as well.

Ultimately, the UK plans to keep their promise of 10 Mbps as a legal right for homes and business by 2020.

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