York residents will be able to request a host of council services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, thanks to a range of interactive web forms being launched next month.

Customers will be able to use the authority's website (www.york.gov.uk) to:
- request the collection of bulky goods
- report street litter and fly tipping
- report defects in pavements and roads
- request a building control inspection
- report an abandoned car
- request a new refuse or recycling container
- report a missed refuse collection
- request pest control services

Anyone submitting a form will receive information about how long their request will take and a customer reference number which they can use to follow up progress.

The initiative follows the launch of the new-look council web site earlier this year. The new site offers a 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.

Customers who prefer to contact the council by phone can still call the authority's York Pride Action Line on 01904 551551 to report problems or request help on a range of issues (such as those listed above). The line is open between 8.30am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday, but custmers can leave a message outside those hours.