Westminster City Council has launched a two-month pilot program aimed at making free Wi-Fi more accessible across central London. The initiative, dubbed *Connected London WiFi*, introduces a new system that allows residents and visitors to connect to multiple public Wi-Fi networks using a single log-in.
The trial, led by the Labour-run council, seeks to create a “seamless roaming experience” and address issues of “digital inequality.” If successful, the council hopes to expand the network across London and potentially beyond, with support from the Mayor of London and other boroughs.
As part of the pilot, QR codes have been installed at 50 locations across Westminster, including businesses, public spaces, and cultural attractions that already offer free Wi-Fi. Users can scan the QR code to create a single profile, enabling their devices to automatically connect to any participating Wi-Fi network within range during the trial period.
Geoff Barraclough, Westminster’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, highlighted the challenges of accessing reliable mobile connections in busy areas like Oxford Street and Covent Garden. He noted that public Wi-Fi often proves cumbersome to access, making this new system a game-changer for both tourists and locals.
Howard Dawber, London’s Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth, praised the initiative as a crucial step toward improving digital access across the capital.
Once the trial concludes, the council will evaluate the feasibility of rolling out the network citywide and explore alternatives to QR codes for a more streamlined user experience.
This innovative project aims to make staying connected in London easier than ever, ensuring that everyone can access the internet seamlessly in public spaces.
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