COPELAND Council’s offices in Whitehaven and Millom will close to the public from Monday, March 23.
The council’s staff will instead be contactable by telephone and email only, and there is a wealth of information available on the council’s website and social media channels.
The decision has been taken in line with Government advice around social distancing and is consistent with the approach taken by other council contact centres.
Residents with pre-arranged appointments at the council’s Whitehaven Market Hall office will be contacted next week to make alternative arrangements.
Pat Graham, Copeland Council’s Chief Executive, said: “This has not been an easy decision to make, but we strongly believe it is in the best interests of our staff and the public.
“We have been encouraging people not to visit our offices for a week, but the Government advice is moving quickly around social contact and we have to respond.
“Our workforce is committed to continuing to provide an excellent level of service to our community, but while current restrictions remain, this will need to be remotely.
“But please be assured we will deal with your enquiry as quickly as possible. We thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”
Arrangements around the viewing of planning documents and the drop-off and collection of council-related documents at the Market Hall will be announced in due course.
Contact Copeland Council’s Customer Services department on 01946 598300 or email [email protected]. The service is open every weekday; 9am to 5pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays; 10am to 5pm on Wednesdays; 9am to 4.30pm on Fridays. This number also has an out-of-hours emergency option for homelessness, flooding and dangerous structures.
Alternatively, visit www.copeland.gov.uk, where direct contact details are listed for individual departments, or the council’s Facebook and Twitter pages.
