WALLINGFORD could get a pioneering wireless Internet system, providing super-fast connections for homes and businesses across a seven-mile radius.

The idea is being considered by the Wallingford Partnership Ltd, which is planning to start by providing free Internet connections in the town centre within the next six months.

If it is a success and the group gets backing from local businesses, it could install a cutting-edge WiMAX system, allowing connection speeds of up to 100 megabits per second — 24 times faster than the average UK Internet connection.

The not-for-profit partnership could then charge residents and firms to use the system, generating cash for ongoing improvements in the town centre.

Partnership chairman Derrick Hoare said: “It is completely new technology. It is leading edge.

“As far as I am aware, no other towns have got it yet. One of the things we have had to consider is the speed at which technology moves now.”

He added: “It has got enormous potential. It is about getting the business model right so we know whether people will want to pay for it.

“We could offer a lower powered system for free, but people could buy into the higher speeds.”