Last Monday, 7 September, Stratford-on-Avon District Councils Cabinet made a decision on the future of the District Councils Shipston Area Office in Telegraph Street.
The Cabinet have recommended for approval that services at Shipston Area Office be transferred to an alternative location within the town by December 2009.
"The cost of keeping the offices open was not viable due to the low number of customers using it, so like any prudent business today in this economic climate we have to look hard at what we can offer to our customers across the District," says Councillor Sue Wixey Deputy Leader and Customer Services Portfolio Holder.
"Services will still be provided in Shipston-on-Stour but on reduced hours from December. The District Council's preferred option is to share facilities with Shipston-on-Stour Town Council at Clark House, where we could be open to customers for up to 18 hours a week. Its central location and the potential it provides to open on Saturday mornings are particular advantages, therefore giving an extended service to those who have in the past not been able to access us during the week. We truly hope that Shipston-on-Stour Town Council will work with us to provide this very valid service for all local residents within the Shipston area.
"The alternative position is to provide the service through a Community One-Stop-Shop every 3 weeks. A Community One-Stop-Shop is a flexible and mobile facility where Customer Service Advisors provide an advisory service to residents as required; this could be at a community hall, local library or similar building.
"Decisions like these are never easy however the District Council is still committed to providing a face-to-face customer service presence in the town but has to prioritise and balance ambition with realism."
