TELECOMMUNICATIONS giant BT is to take over the largest computer network in Suffolk in a ground-breaking public/private link-up.The county council's computer system – together with that of some districts in Suffolk – is to be run in a joint venture with BT.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS giant BT is to take over the largest computer network in Suffolk in a ground-breaking public/private link-up.
The county council's computer system – together with that of some districts in Suffolk – is to be run in a joint venture with BT.
The link-up was being formally announced at a special event at Ipswich Town Football Club.
The county's computer network links all schools, libraries and council offices and was needing a major overhaul in the near future.
It will now be based at BT's Adastral Park research centre at Martlesham Heath just outside Ipswich.
Mid Suffolk council is also involved in the tie-up which will also include the councils' personnel departments.
A single telephone number will enable people to contact any department in either of the councils – and further district and borough councils may join later.
A county council spokesman said that for residents in Mid Suffolk there would effectively be "one council" handling all their services.
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