ELY web developers Simon Pittock and Daniel Block are set to launch a new digital service they hope will help galvanize Ely city centre against the increasing threat of online shopping and the squeeze on incomes.

Ely Ace is a website and mobile phone app which will aim to provide visitors to the city, shoppers and traders with a platform to share ideas, offers, advice, QR codes and information about the city centre and what is has to offer.

The project has been almost two years in the making and is backed by Ely Perspective, a community forum which puts the interests of the city at its heart through initiatives and small grants.

Simon said that almost 100 business had so far expressed an interest in the project, which is set to go ‘live’ by the end of the summer.

He said: “We are very excited about getting Ely Ace off the ground, it is going to be a pretty unique offering. There has been an abundance of enthusiasm for what we’re doing along with some great ideas and suggestions from business owners and staff.

“We’re thrilled at the response and very excited for the future of the project and Ely.”

Daniel added that the service, which also has the support of the Ely Traders Association, would be free for all users, with funding coming from Ely Perspective.

The announcement comes just days before the YourEly website and social media service is to be launched by Ely businesswoman Caroline Bailey, who is also hoping her offering will help promote growth and support for the city’s shopping centre.

Volunteers will begin delivering leaflets to homes around Ely promoting ElyAce from today (Thursday) onwards, with more information about what to expect and contact details.

The do will also be manning a stall at the Cathedral Business Group exhibition on Thursday to answer questions from businesses and members of the public.

For more information, visit www.elyace.co.uk.