News

UK kiosks plug citizens into public services

March 29, 2004

SOUTH TYNESIDE, England--A new kiosk-based initiative in Great Britain connects citizens with various government services.

UK-based Connect Internet Solutions and kiosk-provider Cityspace are under contract to provide 40 self-service information kiosks. They will be designed to help citizens find out when their trash will be picked up and when buses run, and connect them to the police Crimestoppers program, according to publictechnology.net.

In addition, tourists and locals alike can tap into the self-service machines for accommodations, nightlife and restaurants. News and weather information also will be available, and free outgoing e-mail and e-postcards as well.

The kiosks will be placed in Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Sunderland.

Government spokesman Alan Holt said officials are keen on having citizens access public service information 24/7.

"This is the latest stage in the plan to make dealing with all of us more convenient by giving people more choice about how, where and when they can access our services," he said.