Free public Wi-Fi finally comes to Blackwood town centre

Blackwood town centre has become the latest part of Caerphilly County Borough to get free public access Wi-Fi.

It was originally planned to arrive in the town last year, but was delayed.

There is already Wi-Fi in Bargoed, Risca, Rhymney and Ystrad Mynach town centres – funded through the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns Fund and the former Rhymney Valley Task Force Fund.

Plans are also in place for free Wi-Fi in Caerphilly and Newbridge town centres.

The internet will be available through the FreeCCBCWifi network, with users needing to register their details before using it for the first time.

Installed by Caerphilly County Borough Council, the Free Wi-Fi forms part of the local authority’s ‘Chose Local’ campaign, which aims to encourage residents to shop locally.

Council deputy leader Jamie Pritchard, who is also the authority’s cabinet member for prosperity, regeneration and climate change, said the scheme would “draw people back to local town centres”.

Cllr Pritchard said: “Keeping people connected while utilising our high streets is a massive boost for our town centres.

“Free public access Wi-Fi offers opportunities for people with limited or no broadband to access vital online local council, government, and health care services.

“The service will also enable residents and local businesses to engage digital solutions to help improve the overall visitor experience for all.”

He added: “We hope that you give this fantastic service a try, next time you are in one of our town centres and we are proud to continue to break down one of the barriers that prevents local people from utilising local businesses.”