NEWTON Abbot Town Council has raised no objection to plans for a new BT Street Hub designed to improve digital connectivity and provide free public Wi-Fi.

The council’s planning committee recently considered the proposals and agreed it had no objection to the application, although the final decision rests with Teignbridge District Council.

BT Group PLC has submitted a planning application seeking permission to remove an existing telephone box on Newfoundland Way and install a new Street Hub on Highweek Way, close to the junction with Market Street.

The proposed structure would stand almost three metres tall, measuring 1.2 metres wide and 0.35 metres deep.

According to the planning statement submitted with the application, the design features a narrow base to minimise its footprint while maintaining access for wheelchair users.

Its height has also been designed to maximise the range of its Wi-Fi service without dominating the surrounding streetscape.

BT says the Street Hub would provide free ultrafast Wi-Fi for residents, businesses and visitors, alongside a range of other potential urban services.

The company argues the technology could help future-proof the town centre by making the high street smarter, safer and more sustainable, while supporting the development of modern digital infrastructure.

The application identifies a range of potential public benefits, including improved digital connectivity, economic development, public safety and community services.

It also states that the scheme would deliver social, economic and environmental benefits and align with the Government’s support for sustainable development and better digital connectivity.

A decision on the application - reference 26/01539/FUL - is expected by December 1.

To view the plans, and to comment on the application, visit Teignbridge Council’s planning portal and enter ‘26/01539/FUL’ into the search-box.