PEOPLE living in Lewes could have free or lower cost broadband if businesses and households support a new charity scheme. The Lewes Wireless Broadband Project has pledged to take Lewes out its 'technological black hole' and help to set up broadband in hundreds of homes. The not-for-profit group has already established a low-cost service in more than 60 households and organisations in the Lewes area and believes with commercial sponsorship it could provide broadband free of charge to everyone.
It has also provided equipment and training to disabled and elderly people. John Russell, an organiser for the project said: 'We will be able to reduce the costs if more people join the scheme and if local businesses provide sponsorship we could provide free wireless broadband to everybody in Lewes. 'Instead of Lewes being a technological black hole we can make a difference.
'At the moment unless you live in Malling you can't get Freeview, you can't get cable, you can't get anything.' Mr Russell said a growing number of people had joined the scheme especially in the Cliffe and the Pells area, and the project's broadband coverage was steadily growing. The project was originally set up to help disabled people have access to the internet but has grown to include the elderly and artisans in the town.
Mr Russell said: 'We have worked with charities and local organisations) because we realised there were a lot of elderly people that wanted to get on-line because they realised they don't have to be stuck at home, they can shop and keep in touch with friends, at a relatively low cost. 'We've also provided the service to artists, poets, singers, writers, anyone who makes a contribution to the town.' Mr Russell said the LWBP has set up around 60 transmitters or 'tweeters' around the town and was rapidly increasing its wireless broadband coverage.
At present the organisation is offering broadband connection for just £6.95 per month or a one-off payment of £60 per year. If you would like to find out more about the scheme or would like to sponsor the project visit www.
lwbnet.org.uk PEOPLE living in Lewes could have free or lower cost broadband if businesses and households support a new charity scheme.
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