CARDIGAN’s public WiFi project has been completed.

Free public WiFi is now fully available in the centre of Cardigan - from the swimming pool, to Mwldan, round the back of the Markethall, then along the river in front of the castle and Priory Street following the installation of the final units - and it is the first town in Ceredigion and one of the first in Wales to provide this service.

Ann Stokoe, who managed the project on behalf of Menter Aberteifi, said: “While providing internet access for residents and visitors, the technology can collect information on visitor numbers and their movements that will inform plans for the future of the town.

“No personal data is collected unless people chose to opt-in for news and special offers.

“The project identified a number of buildings around town that would be in ideal locations to provide a joined-up signal for people to use. The owners of these businesses and the building owners were contacted to narrow down the search for the ideal spots.

“Thanks are due to all those businesses who took part in the consultation and thanks to those who have ended up hosting units as the project would not have been possible without their co-operation.”

Trial runs during the installation period early last year showed that there were more than 2500 visitors to town on the average day and that 500 stayed for more than an hour. To date more than 6,500 unique devices have actively used the network.

“For the visitor now coming to Cardigan, there is so much more information available to them about local businesses, organisations, attractions and events and it is also tied in with the town app,” added Ann.

The project was funded through the Welsh Government Rural Communities–Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government.

Menter Aberteifi was awarded £27,340 to buy and install the units. Cardigan Town Council contributed £5,000 and 4CG £300 towards the project.