DUDLEY Council’s online payment system is going to be unavailable for three days in February.

The current system, including the automated payment telephone system and online payments via the council website, will be down from 7.45pm on Tuesday, February 21 until 11.59pm on Thursday, February 23.

The council will be working on the web-based system to allow for an “essential upgrade” to be completed, which they claim will make it quicker and easier for customers to make payments online.

A new internet payments facility will be introduced, which customers will be able to use on their mobile devices, while the improved system also brings increased security and the familiar screen layout of other online retailers.

Councillor David Sparks, Dudley Council’s cabinet member for corporate and customer services, said: “We take security of customer information very seriously and have taken the decision to make our payment system even more robust by introducing a new improved system.

“This new design will bring with it many benefits, including enabling residents to pay bills whilst out and about on their personal mobile devices and verification of payment details by account holders.

“We are making online payments even more secure, quicker and easier.

“I would advise residents who use the affected services to make alternative arrangements to make their payments either before or after the upgrade takes place.”

If anyone requires further information regarding this process they should contact Dudley Council Plus on 0300 555 2345.