Google helps freesheet to step up online expansion

Thelondonpaper, the freesheet owned by News International, is teaming up with Google to launch a major extension to its website that aims to build a bridge across the two media platforms.

The new section, called thelondonknowledge, is des-igned to help site visitors plan evenings out in the capital by using interactive maps. Based on Google Maps, it allows users to search by category and area for entertainment and leisure venues that have been reviewed in the printed newspaper and find them on the online maps.

Readers of the thelondonknowledge will also be able to gather information on hundreds of venues, including bars, theatres, restaurants and exhibition openings. All the information is collated into a visual map and users will be encouraged to add their own reviews and recommend other venues and activities and rate existing listings.

A spokesman for the London freesheet says the launch marks the first phase of the roll-out, with plans to launch the service on mobile platforms in the medium term. He adds that thelondonpaper intends to build on its offering of interactive, location-based services which will provide a “genuine utility” for readers across all platforms.

Earlier this year, thelondonpaper.com launched a jobs website covering about 20 industries serving London and the South-east, including banking, education, retail, marketing and media. Thelondonpaper.com/jobs allows users to create their own profiles and track the status of their applications.