Harrow Borough Council says it will save 20 per cent on IT costs after signing a £37 million contract with a new supplier.

The authority has taken on Sopra Steria to upgrade IT systems across Harrow Council to ensure staff and households can take advantage of new technology and access more digital services.

The five-year contract, which will start on November 1, will cost £37million and will deliver a saving of around 20 per cent on the current contract.

Councillor Graham Henson said: “As more and more of our interactions with residents are taking place online we need to ensure we have the best possible IT system in place to help local people.

“This contract represents good value for residents, staff and the young people who will benefit from more apprenticeship places plus a commitment to pay the London living wage.”

The company has also committed to provide the council with a number of initiatives that will benefit the local community including apprenticeships, work placements, work tasters, jobs for residents and support for events.