Free Wi-Fi went live at lunchtime yesterday at Bradford’s award-winning City Park.

It is the second part of the city centre after Bridge Street to get free Wi-Fi – thanks to collaboration between Bradford and Leeds councils, Virgin Media Business and Global Reach Technology.

The scheme is part of a £30 million programme to enable easy and fast online access to residents, visitors and businesses in Bradford.

It is also part of the Government’s ambition to advance connectivity and broadband access across the UK’s major cities. The service will be run by Virgin Media Business which has put in place the infrastructure for the Wi-Fi connectivity.

Bradford Council leader, Councillor David Green, who is keen on tweeting, encouraged people to make use of the service.

He said: “This super connectivity is all about making the city a better place to live and work. We want to boost the economy and boost investment in the city.

“We have launched our City Centre Growth Zone and free Wi-Fi is an essential component of that. It is an extra bonus to businesses along with the rate relief they can receive if they boost jobs here.”

The area covered includes all of City Park and extends to the beginning of Sunbridge Road, Norfolk Gardens and Prince’s Way.