An Angus community group is hoping to turn technology into a tourist boost with a bid to launch an iPhone application to encourage more visitors to the town.
Brechin Area Partnership and Public Park Group member Derek Harper hopes to meet councillors with the aim of discussing the idea of launching a Brechin app using Apple’s iBeacon technology.
The software allows groups to set up transmitters which can alert nearby smartphones of their presence. Notifications about the history of certain parts of Brechin are then sent to users in the area.
Mr Harper said the technology will increase the community’s engagement with their area’s history, as well as with people new to the region.
He said: “The intention is to launch a pilot scheme to create our very own app for Brechin. For example, the town’s Caledonian Railway brings in thousands of tourists so we must take advantage of this.
“The app will encourage people to participate in walks around the town and to use different facilities,” he added.
“I hope to discuss the ideas and present information to councillors later this week.”
Introduced by Apple last year, the iBeacon technology will allow Brechin residents to create their own content. Once the group has bought access to the technology, members then aim to plant different beacons around the town.
Areas which could have beacon locators include the Millennium Forest and the town centre.