An entire valley community left behind by mobile technology has finally connected to the digital world. The village of Paengmakno in Eriri was left without mobile phone services and has struggled for a long time as a result.
People were unable to call emergency services, local buses were unable to locate passengers, mobile library services were unable to issue tickets and there were extended power outages.
This remote village in the Macno Valley is renowned as a hub for the Welsh language and culture. The village is home to around 600 residents and faces similar pressures to other rural communities in the national park, but without the benefit of mobile phones.
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Penmacno, located in south Conwy, is sometimes known as Betws y’Coed’s ‘laid back little sister’. With no mobile phone reception in the valley, communications were difficult and businesses had to pay high electricity bills. Determined to find a solution, the local community council spearheaded a project to install a free Wi-Fi network in the village.
With the help of volunteers and funding from local charities and the National Park Service, the network was up and running. Suddenly the whole village, from the chapel to the pub and village hall, had high-speed internet access.
New contactless donation facilities have been installed at churches and Wi-Fi controlled heating has been installed at Penmakhno’s new community centre. The network also extends to community-run public toilets, where community council secretary Daniel Tomos said residents could now use the toilets with just one tap on newly installed card terminals.
“This is a significant milestone for Penmakhno,” Mr Tomos said. “Residents can stay in touch with their loved ones, work remotely or keep track of rugby scores during Friday night choir practice. Our North Wales Live Whatsapp community, bringing you the top stories and latest news, is now live. Here’s how to sign up:
“Our village has always been known for its strong sense of community and this project is proof of what we can do when we come together. Looking back, I remember children from the village gathering outside the pub trying to get their mobile phones connected.
“The new Wi-Fi system will not only keep the entire community connected, but also ensure the safety and well-being of the Village’s residents and visitors.” Get the latest news from across Gwynedd by signing up to our newsletter, sent to you every Tuesday.
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