BUSINESSES in Caldicot could get free wireless internet installed as part of a government scheme - with the possibility of the whole town centre soon being connected wirelessly to the world wide web.

The Caldicot Town Team are in discussions with Spectrum internet to provide the town centre with free wi-fi. Details are hoped to be finalised within the next two weeks and the kit would be installed by the end of November.

The scheme is being funded through the Super Connected Cities project, a government scheme to improve the availability and use of superfast and what they describe as "ultrafast" broadband.

The scheme is active in 22 cities across the UK and Caldicot's wi-fi will come from Super Connected Newport.

As part of the scheme businesses can get a connection voucher of up to £3,000 for faster, better broadband.

Aaron Reeks, one of four directors of the Caldicot Town Council said: "We hope this will be a big boosts to the town centre and encourage more people to spend time around the centre.

"We hope it will help the independent business with special apps and e-vouchers. We’re looking at other digital avenues such as online loyalty schemes as well as setting up information pages."

Wi-fi could be available at Caldicot Castle and Country Park who are also looking to be included in the scheme.

Gareth Crowe, landlord of the Cross Inn, on Newport Road said: "We've had wi-fi for a few years - I think it's very useful for customers. Lots of people use it and I think it would be advantageous for the town to have it.

"Business could advertise, people could use it for work and school children could use it as an interactive tool for summer tasks. I personally think in this technological age it will benefit the town."

Cathy Edwards, of Country Flowers, also on Newport Road said: "That sounds like a good idea to engage independent businesses."