Increased internet capacity is helping one London council improve its customer services offering, it has been reported.

Hillingdon Council sought high-speed broadband services from ntl:Telewest Business, part of the Virgin Media Group, in order to streamline, modernise and enhance its communication with the public.

The upgraded service is now supporting social media applications, a multi-channel contact centre, and internet and email access for 3,500 staff across 70 sites.

Tim Lawson, Public Sector Sales Manager for London at ntl:Telewest Business, said effective communication is "vital" for successful local government organisations, with improved contact with the public being "a key objective" for such authorities.

He added: "Hillingdon Council recognised the need to provide citizens with the option to participate in self-service and communicate with their council via channels that are convenient for them.

"The increased internet capacity ensures that queries can be dealt with at the first point of contact, resulting in a high level of service."

Earlier this month, budget retail group Instore announced plans to upgrade from a 512Kb broadband service to a 20Mb connection.