High-tech BT 'Street Hub' planned for Leyland high street - this is what is proposed and where

A plan has been tabled to install a high-tech BT Street Hub in the heart of Leyland.

The free-standing hubs, which carry illuminated advertising screens, offer passers-by ultra-fast wi-fi, free UK phone calls, USB charging points and a 999 emergency button for anyone in distress.

Telent on behalf of BT Group PLC want permission to install one on the footpath outside 44-48 Hough Lane, close to the Iceland supermarket.

More than 950 Street Hub units are live across the UK, with controversial plans for Preston approved by the Planning Inspectorate earlier this year.

The proposal is to position the unit setback from the kerb in line with existing street furniture, including a public bin, bicycle hoop, public bench, lamp posts and canopy tree.

It would feature a fully accessible tablet interface and digital HD display screens on two sides. Overall, the dimensions are 35cm deep and 123.6cm wide and a height of 298.6cm to maximize the Wi-Fi range ‘without dominating the street’. BT say a narrow base limits the footprint while ensuring access to wheelchair users.

If approved, the unit would be monitored 24/7, with weekly inspections and a minimum of biweekly cleaning services to keep the unit to a high standard of finish within the existing streetscape. All units are fitted with a direct 999 call button, awareness messages are shown via their advertising screens on either side of the unit, and Street Hubs are powered by 100 per cent renewable carbon-free energy. In 2021, former BT head of street, James Browne, said: “Street Hubs form part of BT’s plan to transform the UK’s streets with a digital communications service designed for the 21st Century.”

A decision will be made in coming weeks by planning bossses at South Ribble Borough Council.

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