York's residents will find it even easier to contact the council this spring thanks to the launch of a new website.

A range of new systems, technology and processes will go live in February as a result of an programme of change in the way the council deals with customers.

The biggest change will be the launch of a new website (www.york.gov.uk). The new site offers a host of improvements including: -comprehensive information on all council services -e-forms for customers to order council services online and the facility for customers to indicate locations via electronic maps - information shown on online maps - where's my nearest library, school, etc -online payments for Council Tax, Business Rates, Rent, Debtors Invoices, etc - better online planning applications, tracking and appeals - e-consultation on a wide range of issues -a refined search facility and better navigation

Members of the public have helped test out the website and electronic forms to make sure they were as easy as possible to use. Testing will be continued among residents with special requirements such as older people or those with disabilities over the next few months to see if any additional improvements can be made.

The new site is more accessible for users, including blind/partially site users and those with disabilities.

Over the next few months the council is also looking to refine internal processes to improve the way it handles telephone contact.

James Drury, assistant director for Public Services, at City of York Council, said: "The new web site will help us to deliver joined up, high quality services that our customers can access quickly, easily and conveniently. Using the web, customers will be able to contact us at a time and place that is easier for them. Obviously our customers can still contact us using existing methods."