The Bay Broadband Co-operative Ltd

A village based social enterprise

Where is it based?

ROBIN HOODS BAY IN NORTH YORKSHIRE

What does it do?

PROVIDES A BROADBAND SERVICE TO RESIDENTS AND VISITORS IN THE VILLAGE

How does it do that

By sending out wireless signals

We use gateways

TO CREATE A NETWORK

And transmit through Nanos

Rockets…

…and Bullets!

How do customers get the signal

Computers pick up the signal through their wifi aerials… but they cannot fully access

the internet unless

They have a password

Or they are permanently logged into the system

Who can get on?

Members are permanently logged on – the system recognises the “mac Address” of their computers

Visitors have to have a password for temporary access

How is this managed?

The co-operative controls the system through a software programme which allows

them to allow computers to access the ‘Network’ and monitors the signal strength

Who are the Co-operative?

They are all residents of Robin Hoods Bay who have formed a company called the Bay Broadband

Ltd.

What sort of Company?

•  A company Limited by Guarantee •  Each member guarantees to contribute £1 •  One person one vote •  Profits cannot be distributed Our Co-operative has over 100 members

How is the company managed

By an elected Board of Directors – who are all volunteers

How much does it cost

•  Members currently pay £5 a month by standing order

•  Those hosting equipment in their houses usually get it free

•  Visitors pay £3 a day or £10 a week

Does it make a profit?

Yes! Profits are reinvested into upgrading the system….. or donations to local charities…. or sometimes we throw a party for the members!

What next?

THE NEW LINK FROM WHITBY