They will carry advertisements and information
New digital screens will be springing up around Newton Abbot town centre despite one objector claiming that they are part of a massive ‘medical experiment’.
Eight ‘smart hubs’ will be installed, carrying advertising messages and information.
They will also have WiFi connections, phone links to the emergency services and a locked compartment housing defibrillators and medicines to help deal with drug overdoses.
Cllr Alex Hall (Con, Buckland and Milber) told fellow members of the Teignbridge Council planning committee that having the screens in the town centre is ‘an exciting opportunity’.
“They represent a forward-thinking solution,” he said. “They will make our town safer, more accessible and better connected for everyone.”
Ollie Smith of Pulse, the company installing the screens, said they would bring real benefits and improve public safety.
However, the committee also heard a letter from a member of the public who was concerned about the screens.
She warned of the dangers of wireless radiation and said they could be used for surveillance.
She believes they are ‘part of the largest medical experiment in human history’.
The committee voted unanimously to go ahead with the screens.
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