A new website that makes it easier for Rutland residents to access council services via the internet has attracted more than 1,000 users in just two months.

Rutland County Council first launched its new MyAccount service at the beginning of August. It allows people living in Rutland to access information about things like bin collections, local roads and Council Tax through their own individual online account.

The features that are available through MyAccount allow residents to:

· Get customised information about their home and neighbourhood

· Go paperless – accessing bills, paying Council Tax, and checking balances online

· Tell the Council about issues with waste bins, waste collections and recycling

· Say that they are moving home or have moved

Give feedback and raise general enquiries

Residents can find out more about MyAccount and how to use the service by visiting: www.rutland.gov.uk/myaccount.

Coun Oliver Hemsley, Leader of Rutland County Council, said: "We're really pleased that so many people have signed up to use MyAccount online. This personalised service is accessible 24/7 from any device with an internet connection and is by far the quickest and easiest way to interact with the Council.

"Things like reporting a missed bin collection take seconds and we would like to see more people join this online service. For those without internet access, there is still the option to call us on the telephone. However, we hope that providing better services online will keep the phone lines free for vulnerable residents and those with urgent enquiries.

"For the small number of people who can't resolve their query online or by phone, there remains the option to book an appointment to see a council officer in person."

After using the COVID lockdown period to develop its use of internet services like MyAccount and the fault reporting system FixMyStreet, the Council is encouraging residents to go online or email: [email protected] first, if they have a problem or query.

Anyone who can't do what they need online or over the phone will be offered an appointment to visit the Council, so they can be certain of a meeting with an officer who can provide the right assistance.

From Monday 4 October, Customers arriving at Catmose with a general enquiry, but no appointment, will only be able to speak to advisors via telephones located in the Customer Services area. These phones will connect individuals to council services as if they had rung from home.

Coun Hemsley added, "We've all had to change the way we do things because of COVID. In many cases, this has led to improvements in the way we operate. The closure of our Customer Services area highlighted the benefits that we can extend to customers by improving our website and phone services, while still offering a small number of face-to-face appointments when needed.

"This means less waiting in queues – particularly for vulnerable residents – and fewer wasted journeys because customers can be sure the person they need to see has time set aside just for them."

He added: ""Our message to the majority of residents is 'start online'. Call us if you query is urgent or you can't find what you need through our website or MyAccount service. There will always be the option to see an officer if you need to meet in person and this will be done via appointment so you are guaranteed the right help."