Wealden District Council has just launched its new website designed to take account of the increasing number of residents who are accessing its services using their smartphone or tablet
“One in three of the visitors to our website do so through some sort of mobile device, like a mobile phone or iPad. We have anticipated this trend and our new look homepage makes it easier for mobile users to use touchscreen technology to go where they want on our website, making navigation simpler for everyone,” said Councillor Nick Collinson, Wealden Cabinet member for Community Leadership and Communications.
“We have also reorganised the areas of interest into four divisions – Residents, Business, Leisure and Council – built around customer needs and making it easier for the public to access services and information online.
“Wealden’s website, www.wealden.gov.uk, is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is fast becoming the most popular way of getting in touch with the Council, whether on tablet, smartphone or pc. We are online whenever you want us.
“We’ve now made it even easier for our customers to pay for services, report a problem, apply for benefits and search for planning applications without the need for a phone call or a visit to our offices. There is also a wide range of news, information about our services and how to contact your local councillor, downloadable forms and details of forthcoming events.”
New features on the web site include a number of navigation aids to help customers find what they are looking for. These include an innovative on-screen help mode which, when activated, highlights areas of the page and provides a simultaneous explanation. There’s also a Page Help on the top right hand side of each page.
Visitors to the website can also watch a short video showing what happens to their recycling after it has been collected from the kerbside. The website’s A- Z guide makes it easy to access all the public services provided across Wealden.
The new look website has been ‘road-tested’ with a number of users including the Wealden Disability Involvement Group and the early feedback is very positive. The Council is always interested in hearing your views and suggestions as to how to improve services. So please use the website and click on Give Us Feedback to tell us what you think.
