Manchester Gay Village Ultrafast Public Wi-Fi Launch

Manchester’s world-famous Gay Village is set to become one of the most connected destinations in the UK, thanks to the launch of a new ultrafast public Wi-Fi network delivering speeds of up to 1GB.

The upgrade arrives just in time for the Manchester Pride Festival, which takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend and attracts more than 100,000 visitors from across the UK and beyond.

From Sluggish to Superfast

For years, public Wi-Fi in the heart of the Village struggled under heavy demand, often running at speeds of just 2–6MB, particularly during peak hours and major events. This resulted in dropped connections, slow card payments, and frustrated visitors.

That’s about to change.

Introducing GLEEfi: Ultrafast Wi-Fi for Everyone

The new network, called GLEEfi (Gay, Lesbian, Everyone, Everywhere), is powered by high-capacity 1GB internet pipes installed at key locations throughout the Village. The solution is delivered by Manchester-based connectivity specialists OneTek Business Solutions, working in collaboration with local venues and business owners.

With this rollout, the Gay Village now ranks in the top 1% of internet speeds in the UK, giving visitors seamless access to social media, messaging, streaming, and digital services — even during the busiest Pride moments.

Built for Events, Designed for Business

Reliable connectivity is no longer a luxury — it’s essential infrastructure.

From fast, secure card payments to real-time social sharing and customer engagement, ultrafast Wi-Fi directly supports both the visitor experience and day-to-day business operations.

Davina White, Business Development Manager at OneTek, explained:

“Slow, snail-paced internet has been a longstanding issue in the Village, especially during major events like Pride. This community-led project delivers ultrafast connectivity not just for one weekend, but all year round — benefiting businesses, visitors, and charities alike.”

Supporting the Community Beyond Connectivity

Access to GLEEfi during the Pride weekend costs £5 (£4 if purchased online in advance). Proceeds are shared between participating venues, OneTek, and four Manchester-based charities that play a vital role in the LGBTQ+ community:

• George House Trust
• The Proud Trust
• Sparkle
• Albert Kennedy Trust

Strong Support from Village Businesses

Local business leaders have welcomed the initiative as a long-overdue upgrade.

Phil Burke, Chair of the Village Business Association, described the rollout as:

“A welcome community initiative that benefits everyone — from visitors to local businesses and charities close to our hearts.”

Hospitality venues across Canal Street and Richmond Street echoed that sentiment, highlighting faster payments, better guest experiences, and the ability to stay connected throughout one of the busiest weekends of the year.

As one venue owner put it: faster Wi-Fi doesn’t just improve Pride — it strengthens the Village long after the festival ends.

A Smarter Future for the Gay Village

The Gay Village has always been one of Manchester’s most innovative and entrepreneurial districts. With the introduction of ultrafast public Wi-Fi, it continues that tradition — setting a new benchmark for how community spaces can blend technology, inclusivity, and economic growth.

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