BT wants to remove a number of phone boxes across Worthing and replace them with new futuristic ‘street hubs’ which would provide USB charging, free UK calls, and public WiFi as well as monitoring air quality.
BT is applying to Worthing Borough Council to remove a number of phone boxes and install new high-tech ‘street hubs’ in their place. Since the start of the roll out in 2017, almost 500 hubs have been installed in the UK.
The hubs operate like large tablets and the 75″ touch screen can also display adverts which helps the telecomms company pay for the units. A number of features are available including free UK calls; free, 5G enabled, ultra fast, encrypted Wi-Fi; rapid USB charging; an emergency services button; and access to local services.
In-built sensors can measure air quality, noise, and vehicle, cycle and pedestrian traffic. This data can then be shared for free with local planning departments.
According to BT, the hubs are powered with ‘100 per cent renewable, carbon-free energy’. The company says that the ‘slimmer’ hubs take up less space than phone boxes. BT also offers free advertising space to local councils, community and business groups through the hubs.
A statement from BT claims the hubs will ‘help future proof the high street’.
“BT are continuing their commitment to invest and improve in the high street, with one Street Hub at a time, and with that de-cluttering these environments with the associated removal of existing BT phone boxes,” the statement says.
“Digital connectivity is now considered to be a utility, and modern life is increasingly impossible without it.
“Connectivity drives productivity and innovation and is the physical underpinning of a digital nation. Being connected is fundamental to the success in our modern world and Street Hub provides a cost-free way for communities to get online and take advantage of available opportunities.”
If planning permission is granted, phone boxes could be removed from the following locations:
South Street
Liverpool Road
Brighton Road
Montague Place
Warwick Street
High Street
Broadwater Street
CCTV images released following theft of gold chain in Havant
Man handed criminal behaviour order for shoplifting in West Sussex
Witness appeal following suspicious incidents in Arundel
Billingshurst train track reopened after major incident
MP for East Worthing and Shoreham will continue fighting for human rights
Train hits barrier in Billingshurst
Launch of Midhurst new outreach service
Portsmouth South MP backs plans to crack down on soaring shoplifting rates
Motorists on the South Coast heading to London Gatwick urged to do their checks on parking firms
Free books on the menu for meals on wheels clients
On Air