RURAL residents will no longer have to travel far to access council services as part of a new scheme.
Council chiefs have chosen Tarporley Library to trial a new way of allowing members of the public access to their services via a ‘face-to- face’ link.
A video link will enable people to see an advisor and talk with them via a webcam and telephone handset, enabling them to fill out forms and exchange documents using touch screen technology and an embedded printer, scanner, signature pad and photo facility. Services that will be available initially are concessionary bus passes and blue disabled parking badges.
Cheshire West and Chester Council Leader Cllr Mike Jones said: “We know that our residents like to deal with the council face-to-face, which is why we operate six One Stop Shops across Cheshire West and Chester.
“Now people in Tarporley can be among the first to benefit from that same level of personal contact in the rural area, without having to travel further than their local library.
“We plan to roll out the technology to a total of 15 libraries over the next year, so this pilot scheme will be vital in shaping how we go about that.
“It means we are investing in our libraries for the benefit of our residents.”
Local member Barbara Roberts said: “I am delighted that Tarporley Library has been chosen to pilot this innovative technology.
“I am sure that Tarporley residents will find it a convenient alternative to travelling to the nearest One Stop Shops in Chester and Northwich.”