Rochdale unveils new website

Rochdale Borough Council has redesigned its website to make it easier to use. www.rochdale.gov.uk was re-launched this month with a distinctive new look as well as additional features which the council hopes will make accessing their services online easier. The site has been designed to be much more compatible with mobile phones and tablets.

The website introduces a new colour system, more responsive design and reflects the council’s recently updated identity. New features allow quicker and easier access to popular pages, more emphasis on news and events to keep residents up-to-date plus an opportunity to view pictures from around the borough. There’s also a new font, icons and colour scheme.

There are now more things than ever that you can report or apply for online without the need to pick up the phone or visit the council in person - saving time and money. On rochdale.gov.uk you can request a bulky waste collection, report littering or fly-tipping, renew your library books, report a missed bin, pothole, faulty streetlight and more. You can also enquire about lots of other council services including fostering and adoption.

Councillor Peter Williams, Cabinet Member for Customer Services said:

“We looked at the existing site to see what could be improved, putting the focus completely on the user and found new ways to make sure things are well organised and easier to find. We’re still regularly improving the website based on the experience of our customers and user feedback, but this is the most significant change of the last few years.”

In 2013 the council website received close to five million page views and nearly one and half million visits.

Rahna Riley, Digital Services Lead said:

“Despite all the information and services we have on the site we’ve tried to embrace the less is more principle, so the site is less cluttered and looks great across all devices. Now it’s easy to access it on your mobile phone or whatever device you use on the internet. We’re constantly improving the site and are planning more additions but we’re now asking people what they think.”

So far feedback has been positive, but the council want to know what you think, so take a look and let them know. You can leave comments via the site.

If you need access to a computer, you can log on to the internet for free at your local library. Staff can help you set up an email account or sign you up for a course to help you get online. Call 0845 121 2976.