Councillors have demanded an urgent upgrade of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s outdated website so that it is more accessible to the public.
The clunky and complicated site, www.dumgal.gov.uk, racks up hundreds of thousands of hits each year – but is definitely not a hit with users trying to find solutions and access public services.
Members of the public have complained that the website is filled with too much “council speak”, is hard to navigate, does not clearly state what the local authority can and cannot do – and that information is often out of date.
There are plans for a revamp for the service.
But Councillors Dougie Campbell and John Denerley have both called for the overhaul to be speeded up.
Rather than frequent reports detailing the situation and potential solutions, they want to see action taken quickly.
Speaking at the council’s economy and resources committee, Mr Campbell said: “Is there any way we can build momentum, particularly in relation to how the public can access services through our council website?
“Can we find some way of accelerating that, and that elected members can see tangible progress this year and beyond?
“Linked to our council plan, it’s really important that we have major development in this area as early as possible.
“What I’m looking for, in effect, is reassurance that we’re not going to call for more frequent reports. What can we do so that elected members have confidence we are making tangible progress?”
Councillor John Denerley, who is deaf and communicates via British Sign Language (BSL), backed the calls for an urgent update to the council’s website and made a plea for BSL users.
He stated: “The council website definitely needs updating. It needs a massive change.
“There needs to be easier access, especially for signposting different places in the website that makes it easier to find information – because, at the moment, I feel that the website is out of date.
“Do you think it will be updated? Other council websites are much more advanced, much more accessible, have easier language.
“For example, British Sign Language, there could be sign-posting to some sign language videos.
“I looked around and there’s a lot of deep English with very specific topics that are not very reader friendly.
“It has been raised in the past and nothing has really happened, but I do think it’s something that needs to be sorted out.”
Graeme McIlorum, the council’s business and technology solutions manager, replied: “It is one of our top priorities.
“We’re looking to bring in some specialist assistance to help us develop that website plan.”
