Plans have been submitted to evolve Watford's old phone boxes into Street Hubs, with the applicant claiming they will "revolutionise the streetscape".
BT and Telenet have applied to install the Street Hubs in a number of locations around the town centre, either on the site of or near to phones boxes.
The hubs will provide a range of features, including 1Gbps of free public Wi-Fi, free UK calls, USB charging and an emergency services button.
HD displays on each side of the unit will be used for advertising, with a number of hours allocated to Watford Borough Council for "promotion and education".
The Street Hubs are planned for the following locations:
- Outside 14–16 Vicarage Road
- Outside Exchange House, 60 Exchange Road
- Outside Watford Travelodge, 23-25 Market Street
- Outside YMCA Charter House, Charter Place
- Outside 89 High Street
"BT Street Hubs have the potential to significantly enhance the provision of local community communications facilities and services," a planning statement reads.
"It will deliver social, economic, and environmental benefits by providing a suite of essential urban tools and services, including free ultrafast Wi-Fi to residents, businesses and visitors in this area.
"BT Street Hubs will help future proof the high street, making them smarter, safer, and more sustainable through their adaptable design and function.
"The proposed BT Street Hub structures are of a high quality, accessible design that would be a significant improvement when compared to the existing payphone kiosks.
"Modern signage which is interactive and multi-faceted in its use has become more acceptable on the street scape due to its functionality, clean and modern look."
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