GOVERNMENT inspectors say things are set to improve after highlighting weaknesses with Chiltern District Council's information technology service.

The council's IT department, which has an annual budget of more than £700,000, was awarded just one star out of a possible three after an inspection by the Audit Commission last November

Inspectors found that staff of the IT service were felt to be inflexible and at times obstructive by some users, who include council staff, councillors and the public.

The service's help desk was criticised because calls were picked up by whoever was nearest the phone and logging of calls was patchy.

A report released last week, which comes after a follow-up visit in January, says a clear action plan is in place which recognises a need to change.

Council chief executive Alan Goodrum said: "Best Value reviews aim to improve all areas of local government by looking at the cost, efficiency and effectiveness of service. Since completing the review in November 2000 suggested improvements for the IT section have already started to happen.

"The service now has a dedicated help-desk operator, it has implemented a new performance management system and is improving communications between IT and the other council staff."

Copies of the report are available from the council or on www.bestvalueinspections.gov.uk