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    • Dorset Council receives funding to trial WiFi-connected steam train
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    Dorset Council receives funding to trial WiFi-connected steam train

    Sakege Posted on

    Full steam ahead for the new connectivity project on the Swanage Railway. Credit: Dorset Council.

    Dorset Council has received £163,000 ($210,516) in government funding to trial the UK’s first WiFi-connected steam train on the Swanage Railway.

    Funding was provided by the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).

    Richard Biggs, Dorset Council deputy leader and cabinet member for Property, Assets and Economic Growth, said: “This is an innovative project on Swanage Railway, which could help pave the way for better connectivity in the future.

    “It will not only improve the experience of visitors using the railway, but will also explore how these technologies can improve services in remote areas.

    “It is a fantastic example of how we are working towards a more connected and inclusive Dorset, ensuring everyone benefits from digital innovation.”

    This project is part of the national Rural Connectivity Accelerator program, whose objective is to bring modern technology to rural areas.

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    Working with Excelerate Technology UK, Dorset Council will introduce satellite-powered public WiFi at Purbeck Park car park, Norden railway station and on board the steam service in early 2025.

    This project addresses the need for reliable connectivity in rural areas with challenging landscapes and limited services by traditional network operators.

    Excelerate Technology UK will deploy advanced connectivity solutions, including low Earth orbit satellites, to ensure a reliable WiFi connection for Swanage Railway.

    Bethan Evans, operations director at Excelerate Technology, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Dorset Council on this project. Our advanced technology is designed to meet the unique challenges of rural environments.

    “We believe that technology can transform the way communities engage with heritage and tourism, and we are proud to be part of this initiative.”

    Swanage Railway, which contributes more than £15 million ($19.37 million) a year to Dorset’s economy, will benefit from improved services such as cashless systems, ensuring its continued success as a tourist attraction.

    Swanage Railway Company Chairman Gavin Johns said: “Swanage Railway is delighted to be partnering with Dorset Council and Excelerate to deliver improved rural WiFi connectivity on trains and at Norden station.

    “As we look ahead to 2025, with Rail 200 celebrating the bicentenary of railways in the UK and the 140th Anniversary of the trains to Swanage, this is a great opportunity to demonstrate that old and new can work together for the benefit of rural communities and our customers and staff.”

    This initiative sets a precedent for similar projects across the UK by demonstrating the effectiveness of advanced technology in rural areas.

    The success of the project could lead to improved digital infrastructure and economic growth across Dorset, benefiting even the most remote areas with modern connectivity solutions.


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