A HIGH-tech system to benefit homebuyers in West Devon goes online next month.
From June 2, property searches in the borough can be carried out electronically and is expected to provide a simpler and more efficient service to homebuyers and solicitors.
The new method is being introduced at West Devon Borough Council two years ahead of e-Government targets, which require local land charges to go fully electronic by 2005.
It will mean that solicitors, having received instructions from a client, will be able to log on to a specific website to request a property search. All fees can also be paid electronically. The system leads to less paperwork and time-consuming form filling.
Earlier this month there was a regional launch of the new system in Tavistock with a training seminar for solicitors and other residential and commercial conveyancing staff by the National Land Information Service (NLIS) who are spearheading the new method.
The borough has signed up to the NLIS working in partnership with international computer company Macdonald Dettwiler (Hub) Ltd, and software firm MVM Consultants plc.