A major improvement to the way cash is collected from residents paying their council bills is set to be introduced in Tendring.

It will mean that more than 40 outlets across the District will be available to people - as opposed to only four Tendring District Council (TDC) cash offices at present.

The changes will also help to support local shops and businesses boosted by the increased footfall as well as making vital savings which will benefit tax payers.

TDC's Cabinet agreed the new initiative yesterday (January 25) and it will be phased in over a period of time as plans are put in place.

Giles Watling, the Council's Cabinet Member for Benefits and Revenues, said it is all part of an overall review of services to provide better value for money for residents.

"The move over to a free outsourced bill service to take cash payments is a complete no brainer," he said.

"We are enhancing services - rather than cutting them - and there will be more than 40 outlets where people can pay their council bills instead of just four. Council surgeries and face to face contact with outside agencies such as Citizens Advice Bureau will still be available in the same areas.

"Most residents will find there will be new pay points much closer to them than the existing cash offices in Clacton, Frinton, Harwich and Weeley and there will be facilities to pay in some towns and villages for the very first time."

The changes will also satisfy those people who called for longer opening hours and shorter queues in a survey undertaken by the Council last summer.

"It is expected that the new method will save around £70000 a year from the second year onwards following an initial cost of £20,000 in the first year," added Cllr Watling.

"This will all help with the Council's aim to keep Council Tax bills down."

None of the cash offices will be closed until the alternative pay points are working successfully and debt surgeries currently held at the offices will continue at alternative nearby locations.

TDC uses other ways to collect its payments including online, by Direct Debit and by telephone (0800 678 3046), which is free from a BT land line.

"It is absolutely crucial that the Council continues to successfully collect money owed to it for everyone's benefit while at the same time provide a service which suits all our customer's needs," added Cllr Watling.

"The new arrangements will also boost footfall in the 40 or so shops and businesses taking part in the scheme.

"I appreciate there will always be a natural resistance to any change but I am confident that people will find the new service far more convenient."

The Council has promised residents that it will keep them updated on the changes and timings once plans are finalised.

26/1/12