Ipswich plans by JCDecaux UK to build two ‘communication hubs’ with free wifi and defibrillators in Tacket Street and Friars Bridge Road

Proposals have been submitted to build two ‘communication hubs’ with defibrillators in Ipswich.

JCDecaux UK is seeking permission from Ipswich Borough Council to build two sets of street furniture, equipped with 86-inch LCD screens to display advertisements, free wifi with phone charging, and monitors with information, at two locations in the town centre.

The first would be in Tacket Street, next to the former Woolworths car park, while the second would be opposite Ipswich Buddhist Centre in Friars Bridge Road.

Each hub would also come with a defibrillator, accessed through a touch screen, and displays could show real-time updates or signpost services in the town.

The boards will also allow users to dial helplines or emergency services, while also offering notifications on air quality in the area.

The defibrillators would be supplied by The Community Heartbeat Trust Charity.

Martin Fagan, the charity’s national secretary, said: “We are delighted to provide defibrillators across the UK.

“Cardiac arrests can happen to anyone at any time and after calling 999 and doing CPR, using a defibrillator offers the best chance to save a life.

“Early defibrillation can triple a victim’s chance of survival. With clear voice and visual instructions that guide the user through the process, these defibrillators are straightforward to use and require no special training, although we will work with the communities near these kiosks to offer training.

“We would urge everyone to be prepared, be ready and save a life.”

The hubs will come with solar panels and will be powered through renewable energy.

JCDecaux has built 127 such displays in 18 cities across the UK.