Building a better website for Colchester
We are changing the way we deliver online services, and our new website is a big part of that change.
Our Digital Strategy 2025 to 2028 focuses on making it easier for residents and businesses to find information, use services and get things done online. The new website helps turn this plan into real improvements people can see and use.
Designed around what you need
A key part of the strategy is putting residents first. The website has been designed around what people want to do, not how the council is organised.
This means:
- Services are grouped by task, not by department
- Clearer language and simpler menus
- Less repeated information, so pages are easier to find
Whether you are paying for something, reporting an issue or looking for advice, the aim is to make things quicker and easier.
Digital first, with other support still available
We aim to make online services the easiest option wherever possible. The new website helps by:
- Making services available online at any time
- Providing clear steps, so you know what to expect
- Supporting self-service, where this makes sense
We know not everyone can use online services. Making digital journeys simpler helps free up staff time, so we can better support residents who need extra help.
Accessible for everyone
The new website has been built to be more inclusive and accessible. Improvements include:
- Clearer layouts, better contrast and readable text
- Support for screen readers and assistive technology
- Mobile friendly pages that work well on phones
Accessibility has been built in from the start, not added later.
Safer and more secure
Keeping residents’ information safe is essential. Behind the scenes, the website supports this by:
- Handling personal data more consistently
- Using stronger security for forms and transactions
- Providing clearer privacy information
These changes help keep services reliable and secure.
Already making a difference
Some of our most used services have already moved to the new website.
- All key information in one place
- Easier access to opening times and facilities
- Better use on mobile phones
- Services organised by what you need to do
- Clearer guidance on collections and recycling
- Faster access to common tasks
- Simple step by step guidance on voting
- Important dates easier to find
- Improved accessibility
- Clearer explanations of complex topics
- Easier ways to report issues
- Consistent layout across pages
What happens next
Moving services to the new website is ongoing. Each area follows the same principles from our Digital Strategy:
- Clear and customer focused design
- Digital first, but not digital only
- Accessible and inclusive services
- Safe and secure systems
- Ongoing improvements based on feedback
More services will move across in stages. We will keep listening, improving and adapting so our website works better for everyone in Colchester.