The Sunshine Business Association is lobbying Brimbank council to set up free wi-fi for visitors in Sunshine’s town centre.
Association president Bruce White said he had approached the council on several occasions about the idea but it had baulked at the proposal so far.
The council met the association and other stakeholders earlier this month when the topic of wi-fi in Sunshine was discussed.
Mr White’s proposal has two stages – from Service Street to Devonshire Road, and then towards the train station.
It is proposed the project be funded by a council special rate on local businesses, with Mr White saying the idea would cost about $30,000 to set up.
“It would be a drawcard for the centre,” he said. “It would really increase foot traffic. You could gather data about people’s shopping habits and movements.
“It could provide updates of events, plus you could sell advertising from local business.”
He said it was perfect timing for free wi-fi with the new community and civic centre due to open in coming months.
Council acting city development director Leanne Deans said there was “no immediate plan” for the council to support the idea.
She said the new library at the community and civic centre will have in-house wi-fi for public use.
