Pigeons take flight over a field in the South Gloucestershire market town of Chipping Sodbury  Credit: Barry Batchelor/PA Archive/PA Images

South Gloucestershire Council is to kick-start a digital-transformation programme by building a new platform to deliver online services to citizens.

The platform will be used as the basis to create a portal through which the area’s residents can use a single login to access a range of council services and information. The authority intends that the digitisation programme will deliver cost savings and create efficiencies, as well as improving the quality of service delivery.

Council leader Matthew Riddle said: “We use our mobile phones, tablets, or home computers to order a weekly shop or renew our vehicle tax online, so it makes sense that people are also able to interact with council services at times and in ways which are convenient for them. Ensuring that our services are accessible and customer-centric is something we’re passionate about improving - for the benefit of all residents in South Gloucestershire.”

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He added: “As we embark on our digital journey, we of course recognise that not everyone is digitally orientated, nor does everyone have direct access to a computer or mobile, and we will ensure their needs continue to be catered for by providing options to complete transactions either offline or through advocates.”

To help roll out the digital-transformation agenda, South Gloucestershire Council has signed a two-year contract with IT firm Civica.

Chris Doutney, executive director of Civica Digital said: “It’s clear that South Gloucestershire Council is a forward-thinking, digital-first council. Not only are they looking for immediate technology solutions, but the council is also thinking ahead to create an exemplary service for residents and local businesses, as well as its own employees. We look forward to working together to achieve these ambitious plans for the future.”