The centres will be 'real places' that provide people with access to the Internet, digital broadcast and online services, and opportunities to learn more about their potential. Centres have a proven track record, particularly in the US where there is a strong network . The forums, with associated Web pages of community information, will be online communities that provide people with the information and communication systems necessary to enhance the social, economic and environmental well-being of their communities. Both centres and online communities will be needed. Without physical access centres, many people will not be able to get online or use the Internet.
Centres can also provide a focus for the development of high quality local content and services.
The centres will be the libraries, schools and community centres of the digital age - sometimes located in these existing facilities, sometimes in other places where people naturally gather, sometimes purpose built. They will be designed to be unintimidating, welcoming and convenient. A support programme associated with each centre should provide training and advice for individuals, small businesses and community organisations who wish to develop their own use of digital services, ranging from basic Internet use to the development of community media services. The online community systems will be the local public service broadcasters of the digital age, combining news, information and interactivity. They will develop in a number of ways.