HARROGATE Borough Council has just re-launched its website with over 2000 pages of information about the council's services and much more about the places to see, places to shop and places to dine out within the district.  It has also just launched an EasyPay facility whereby council bills can be paid online or over the telephone.

 

With new search and navigation facilities, the council's website is much easier to use, especially for those with visual impairments.

 

Robert Van Tol, Information and Website Manager, who has led a team developing the new site, believes the creation of this new website is a giant leap forward for the council's online presence. 

 

He said: "Whilst we are conscious that many people still want to contact us by the old tried methods, the district does have one of the highest computer ownerships in the country and more people are turning to the web first.

 

"We provide services in an area covering some 500 square miles so we have redeveloped the web site to help bring communities together.  We have aimed to provide the type of web service residents and businesses want from us as well as giving them as much information as possible about their local area.  Visually, the site is so much improved you will want to visit that castle, eat at that coffee shop or have a day out at one of the many fairs and festivals which take place in our area.  People will also find this sort of information easier to find.  And those wishing to stay in the area can now book hotel accommodation online via our web site."

 

The launch of the new site also coincides with the council's newly created EasyPay system whereby residents and customers can pay their accounts 24/7.  Customer demand for online payment is increasing and the council has responded to the changing needs of residents by creating online payment facilities.  But recognising that online payment is not possible for everybody, the council has also set up an automated telephone payment line.  There has been a really good response already with over 200 payments and more than £30,000 being paid since the facilities went live last month.

 

Council tax, business rates, council house rents, penalty charge notices, and general invoices can now be paid over the web at www.harrogate.gov.uk/EasyPay or by calling the automated telephone line 0845 1295599.