Business-led group Uppingham First wants to install miniature aerials in the town to enable the launch of a pilot community internet scheme in the north end of Uppingham.

The organisation wants to realise its pilot project by the end of March.
If successful, the group would then look to expand its internet-for-all initiative across the town.

Uppingham First secretary Ron Simpson believes the scheme would greatly benefit residents, assisting community schemes by boosting communications between one another.

He said: "Most people can see the tremendous benefits of having this wi-fi scheme in Uppingham.

"Once the wi-fi umbrella has spread across the area it will create so many possibilities for the residents."

Next month Uppingham First will meet Uppingham Town Council to discuss the proposals.

Mr Simpson said he hoped the town council would come on board the project and consider investing in it.

A potential hurdle for Uppingham First would be securing the approval of Rutland County Council's planning team for the installation of aerials to enable the project.

Uppingham First is carrying out surveying work for possible locations.
Meanwhile, Mr Simpson said the pilot scheme for the north end of Uppingham would cost about £2,000.

A Welland Sub-regional Strategic Partnership grant of £9.000 has already been secured for future developments, should the wi-fi pilot take off.

Stage two would extend the high-speed coverage to such areas of the town as funding permits. Stage three would lead to complete coverage of the town by 2012.

Uppingham First has met with people involved in a similar project in Swindon.

The Wiltshire town created headlines last year when £1m plans were announced to give every single resident wireless internet for free.