[A]llerdale Borough Council will be carrying out essential refurbishment works in its reception area at Allerdale House in Workington to improve its customer experience.
A review of the main reception showed that the current layout of the public area does not work well for customers, visitors or staff, and congestion and confidentiality were identified as concerns.
Councillor Konrad Hansen, Executive Member with responsibility for Transformation, said: “The redesign does away with the open counters and replaces them with light and airy meeting rooms where customers can discuss issues with Council Officers more privately. It will also take into account the different needs of our customers, with a comfortable waiting area, dedicated children’s play area and a more dementia-friendly design. The improvements will be considerable, however we do apologise for any inconvenience caused during the works.”
During the refurbishment customers will be directed to a temporary reception area which will be based in the Council Chamber to the left of the building, with a separate ‘goods in’ bay to the right of the building for deliveries. These changes will begin when the works commence on Monday 6 November with a planned completion date of Friday 22 December.
There may be some disruptions while the works are carried out, therefore customers are advised, where possible, to use the Council’s online services for reporting issues and making payments, call the customer services team on 0303 123 1702 or visit one of the area offices in Cockermouth, Maryport, Wigton or Keswick.