Open Document Formats (ODT and ODS)

Why we use open document formats for downloads

To make our information accessible to as many people as possible, we publish some documents in Open Document Format (ODF), including:

  • ODT (.odt) for text documents
  • ODS (.ods) for spreadsheets

We follow UK Government guidance on the use of open standards for editable documents. Open formats can be opened and edited using a wide range of free and paid software, helping ensure that people do not need to purchase specific products to access council information.

Using open formats helps to:

  • improve accessibility and inclusion
  • support a wider choice of software and devices
  • make it easier to share information
  • reduce dependence on proprietary software
  • provide long-term access to documents and data

The UK Government has adopted Open Document Format (ODF) as the standard for editable documents across government, including ODT for text documents and ODS for spreadsheets.

How to open ODT and ODS files

Most smartphones and tablets can open ODT and ODS files using either a free app or an online service. If your device does not open the file automatically, you can use Google Drive, Microsoft 365 Online, or download a compatible app from your device's app store.

Open files using an app

Android devices

Compatible apps include:

  • Google Docs (for ODT files)
  • Google Sheets (for ODS files)
  • LibreOffice Viewer
  • Collabora Office

Apple (iPhone and iPad) devices

Compatible apps include:

  • Microsoft Word (for ODT files)
  • Microsoft Excel (for ODS files)
  • Collabora Office

Open files using an online service

Google Drive

Google Drive can open both ODT and ODS files in your web browser.

  1. Go to drive.google.com
  2. Sign in with your Google account
  3. Upload the ODT or ODS file
  4. Open the file using Google Docs or Google Sheets

Microsoft 365 Online

Microsoft 365 Online can also open many ODT and ODS files in your web browser.

  1. Go to office.com
  2. Sign in with your Microsoft account
  3. Upload the ODT or ODS file to OneDrive
  4. Open the file in Word Online or Excel Online

Please note that both services require an internet connection and a Google or Microsoft account.

Need help?

If you have difficulty opening a document, please use our online form.

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