Two York phone boxes are set to be replaced with a more hi-tech communications hub.
BT wants to rip out the two phone boxes near the Everyman Cinema on Blossom Street and install what they call a street hub unit in their place.
They are being rolled out across the UK. BT says they are “cutting-edge phone-box replacements that bring a host of free services to communities”.
These include:
- two high-definition digital displays used for advertising and announcements
- ultrafast wi-fi up to one gigabit speed
- fast device charging via two USB ports
- emergency services via a dedicated 999 button
- council services via a touchscreen tablet
- free UK national landline and mobile phone calls.
It could also provide environmental information. “Across the UK, we’re trialling air quality monitoring equipment within Street Hubs,” says a planning document.
“The information from these sensors could be used by participating (and interested) councils and researchers to complement other data sources and improve local decision making.”
BT is applying for permission to City of York Council to remove the phone box and install the street hub.
You can find out more and comment on the council’s planning portal here.
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