REDBRIDGE: Council set to improve phone network (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

REDBRIDGE: Council set to improve phone network

3:15pm Thursday 2nd September 2010 in

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CASH strapped Redbridge Council is looking to spend £570,000 updating its telephone network.

The authority's cabinet will discuss a proposal to update the council's main telephone network which is 25-years-old and "operating beyond its intended lifespan".

A report which members are set to debate on Tuesday, September 7, highlights that if the outdated equipment fails, parts may not be available and could be difficult or expensive to source.

The reports states the continued performance of the telephone network cannot be guaranteed and the risk of serious failure is increasing, which could potentially leave the council without a telephone service.

Despite the authority having to make a raft of savings because of Government cuts, officers at the council have recommended the £570,000 be spent in the next financial year.

The council is looking to save about £4 million this year but last month Ian Bond, deputy leader, said the spending reductions would be even more severe next year.

A spokeswoman for the council said: "In the current financial climate, it is essential to invest in technology that will deliver cost savings and improve services.

"With the new system, users will be able to make telephone calls over council's computer networks.

"This reduces the costs associated with operating and supporting a separate telephone network.

"The new system will enable the council to save an estimated £100,000 annually.