Medieval Meets Modern In Ely

Digital signs are being installed across the city as part of a joint initiative designed to celebrate the medieval city using new technology.

The 13 digital information points, due to go live in June, will use smart touchscreen technology – linked to the free public wifi and a dedicated Visit Ely app – to benefit residents, tourists, businesses, and the environment.
 
As well as navigating people through the beautiful city using web mapping platforms like Google Maps, users will be able to easily search for the latest information on local shops and businesses.
 
Details of key events will be available to view at a glance and, if push notifications are requested, businesses can use the app to offer discounts and promotions.
 
Interesting facts and information will be uploaded by Visit Ely, enabling people to follow new historical routes around the city centre.
 
And a gamification feature will provide an element of fun with treasure hunts and quizzes.
 
The new technology is being installed by East Cambridgeshire District Council with a £240,000 grant from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority designed to help boost the local economy.
 
Once the digital signs and the accompanying mobile apps for Android and Apple are up and running they will be officially handed over to Visit Ely, which is managed by the City of Ely Council.