Leeds city centre street could get free Wi-Fi and phone charging under new BT plans
BT said the hub would help boost the city centre high street economy
Free wi-fi and mobile phone charging could be provided on a Leeds city centre street if plans are agreed with the council.
Telecoms giant BT is seeking to replace aging payphones on New York Street with new facilities.
The BT Street Hub would offer free public wi-fi, USB charging and quick access to emergency services calls.
Leeds City Council has been asked to approve a full planning application for the scheme.
A planning report said: “BT is continuing to move forward with public connectivity and benefits in which street hubs will provide a sleek and modern answer to the demands of a digitally connected society.”
BT said the scheme would be partly funded by advertising on LCD screens as part of the installation.
The company said the street hub would help boost the city centre high street economy.
The report said: “Street hubs will help future-proof the high street, making them smarter, safer and more sustainable.
“Investment in the high street is at an all-time low, but that has not slowed BT down as they look to ramp up their roll-out of new street hubs across the UK.”
An application for full planning permission is out or consultation until August 27.