The next generation 'phone box' could soon arrive in Canterbury city centre offering free 4/5G wi-fi and calls as well as a wide range of internet services.

It follows a planning application by BT to install new high tech 'street hubs' in six locations, largely in the Whitefriars area, but extending up to outside Waitrose in St George's Place.

If approved, they would bring a welcome boost to the city centre's notoriously poor mobile wi-fi reception, which often frustrates both business owners and visitors.

The idea is welcomed by council leader Cllr Ben Fitter-Harding, who has been campaigning for better connectivity by mobile network providers.

"The main consideration will be how these very modern units will fit in with any conservation sensitive areas but they seem a good idea," he said.

Applications for four similar street hubs have already been submitted in Ashford which, if approved, is likely to be the first location in Kent to get the high-tech facilities.

Their features include strong wi-fi hotspots and the ability for users to make free calls, 999 calls and access the internet to send emails or search for services.

But in other areas, including Brighton, where they were found to be used for criminal purposes like drug dealing, BT now works with local police to prevent calls to suspicious mobile numbers.

The standalone units are financed by on-screen advertising but there are also fears they could become a target for graffiti and vandalism.

The six sites in Canterbury identified for the new hubs are in Rose Lane, St George Street, Gravel Walk, Whitefriars Street and two in St George's Place.