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Manchester Gay Village Welcomes Ultrafast Internet Ahead of Pride

Manchester Gay Village Welcomes Ultrafast Internet Ahead of Pride

In a landmark development, Manchester’s Gay Village is set to receive ultrafast internet ahead of the upcoming Pride Festival.

This advancement promises to revolutionise connectivity and enhance the festival experience for attendees.

Ultrafast Internet Revolution

The Manchester Pride Festival is set to be transformed by the introduction of ultrafast internet, courtesy of a pioneering tech firm, GLEEfi. Utilising 1GB internet pipes strategically placed throughout the Gay Village, the new Wi-Fi product aims to provide festival-goers with speeds that reach the upper echelons of internet connectivity in the UK.

Historically, public Wi-Fi in the area has been marred by sluggish speeds ranging between 2MB and 6MB. This upgrade represents a quantum leap in technological capability, promising seamless streaming and connectivity for attendees of this vibrant celebration.

OneTek’s Ambitious Project

OneTek Business Solutions, the brainchild of Lee Donaghey since 2008, spearheads this ambitious project by bringing cutting-edge Wi-Fi solutions to the community. Their vision extends beyond Manchester, striving to roll out similar services across the UK, targeting other LGBTQ+ events, music festivals, and community gatherings, thereby broadening the reach of their innovative services.

As a community-based initiative, OneTek has collaborated with iconic venues and business proprietors within the Gay Village. This collaboration aims to enhance the digital experience for over 100,000 visitors expected at the Manchester Pride and for residents throughout the year.

Economic Implications for Local Businesses

Jack Williamson, a business owner in the area, expressed enthusiasm about the economic benefits that faster broadband could bring. “We’re confident it will be good for business,” he stated, predicting an upswing in commerce long after the festival concludes.

According to Phil Burke, chair of the Village Business Association, the notoriously slow internet speeds have been a significant hurdle for businesses. With this breakthrough, local enterprises could gain a strategic advantage by attracting tech-savvy customers who prioritise connectivity.

Potential for Broader Impact

The installation of ultrafast internet not only benefits Manchester’s Gay Village but sets a precedent for other communities facing similar technological challenges. This project exemplifies how innovation can address longstanding infrastructure problems, propelling urban areas into the digital age.

Through the successful implementation of this initiative, other regions may be inspired to seek similar upgrades, enhancing the digital infrastructure nationwide. Such advancements could be instrumental in bridging the digital divide.

Excitement Within the Community

The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with anticipation building for the possibilities that come with enhanced internet speeds. Residents and business owners alike foresee a more integrated and connected community, resulting from this technological advancement.

The sentiment is echoed across social media platforms, where locals share their enthusiasm for the upcoming Pride festivities paired with superior internet connectivity. The online discourse suggests a burgeoning sense of pride and community spirit driven by this upgrade.

Future Developments and Expansions

OneTek is already in discussions to expand their ultrafast Wi-Fi solutions to additional venues and events across the country. This proactive approach highlights a commitment to innovation and community enhancement, ensuring that more people can benefit from superior digital access.

The continuity of this project could see technological advancements reaching rural areas that have been historically underserved. By extending their services, OneTek positions itself as a leader in community-focused tech solutions.

Conclusion: A Step Forward

The introduction of ultrafast internet in Manchester’s Gay Village signifies a major step forward in technological progress. This initiative not only enriches the festival experience but also provides lasting benefits to the community and its businesses.

The success of this project stands as a testament to the impact of innovative solutions on local communities, substantiating the importance of continued investment in digital infrastructure.


The ultrafast internet introduction in the Gay Village represents significant technological advancement.

This initiative enhances the Manchester Pride experience and provides long-term community benefits.

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