Photos: iPhone apps that save the government millions

Ever wondered whether a fast-food joint is a bit ropey or a swanky restaurant is worth shelling out for? Then check out the Scores on the Doors augmented reality iPhone app and website.

Diners use the phone's camera to view their chosen eatery and the app overlays ratings from the local council's hygiene inspectors. The location-based app works by using the iPhone's built in location hardware - such as its compass - to determine which business the mobile user is looking at.

Hygiene reports are available in areas where local councils have made reports available, with 122 councils now contributing information about more than 141,000 premises. The app and the website can also be used to search for hygiene reports by business name or address, as shown above.

The creators of the Scores on the Doors service claim it has reduced the cost to councils of policing hygiene at food outlets by helping to raise average hygiene scores - meaning fewer inspections are required.

You can find out more about the Scores on the Doors app here.

The MiPermit app enables people to pay for parking using their phone.

Users create an account with MiPermit, enter the location where they are parking and how long they want to park for - and the app will automatically debit their account.

The app can be used to pay for parking at a number of council and privately controlled car parks and parking spaces in the UK, including spaces owned by Gloucestershire County and Gloucester City Council.

You can find out more about the MiPermit app here.

The My South Tyneside web app provides residents with news and information on local facilities and services.

Residents type in their postcode or address and the app, which is hosted on the South Tyneside Council website, will display information about their local councillor, local news, rubbish collection times, addresses for facilities such as schools and libraries, and lists of nearby planning applications and job vacancies.

The LGA report estimates that the council was able to save up to £146,669 by answering queries via the online service rather than dealing with enquiries by telephone or face-to-face.

You can find out more about the My South Tyneside web app here.

Anyone looking for a good day out in Hampshire can discover what the county has to offer by downloading the Hampshire app.

The app provides information on nearby attractions and facilities, including museums, country parks, art centres and libraries.

You can find out more about the Hampshire app here.