Vegas Buzz

Passengers will be able to use their mobile phones on the subway

Work will begin later this month to install a mobile and wi-fi network on Glasgow's subway system.

Operator Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) has signed a deal with Arqiva to provide a combined cellular and wi-fi network at all 15 stations.

Gordon Maclennan, of SPT, said Glasgow was the first city to provide 2G and 3G coverage on the subway and described the deal as a "milestone".

Initial testing of the network will take place at Buchanan Street station.

"The new network should also reassure our customers that we are regularly responding to changing passenger needs," he added,

The network will enable customers to use internet and mobile phones at underground stations.

Howard Williams, business development manager for Arqiva, added: "As the UK moves closer to wirelessly enabled areas the benefits that wireless networks, such as the one contracted by SPT, can provide are being recognised and cities need to capitalise on this."

Plans have been made for allowing mobile phones to be used on the tube in London.

Trials will begin at some stations later in the year.

SOURCE: BBC http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/glasgow_and_west/7182863.stm