Croydon has been named as digital council of the year for embracing new technology and maximising its benefits for customers.
Around 180,000 people, half the borough’s population, have registered for a My Account to use online services and pre-book appointments, with these changes saving local taxpayers around £8million.
The authority has also invested £2million in TMRW, which has become a hub for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Council leader Tony Newman and Croydon staff collect their award
And the council was also the first authority in the country to partner with GO-ON UK to help residents who struggle with technology improve their digital skills. Over 2,000 people have been helped so far, and 500 of the council’s old computers are to be distributed to community groups.
Council leader Tony Newman said: “Croydon has led the way on many advances and we’ve been recognised as having the fastest growing technology ecosystem in the UK.
“Our work extends well outside the council itself and we’re both helping tech firms to thrive and assisting those local people who need a hand getting to grips with computers and the internet.”