Cash-strapped council moves face-to-face service out of Shrewsbury shopping centre to make 'better use of its buildings'

Shrewsbury's Shropshire Local service point, for the council's face-to-face customer services, is currently located in Unit 13 of Darwin Shopping Centre. 

But from next Thursday (January 30) the service - which helps customers access numerous council services including applying for bus passes and blue badges - will be operating from Shrewsbury Library in Castle Gates. 

Shropshire Council says the move is part of its drive to "get the best use from its buildings", and the relocation "will provide a broader range of services to the community, in a central and easily accessible location".

It says the move will also "create opportunities for businesses to move into the Darwin Shopping Centre".

Councillor Robert Macey, cabinet member for culture and digital, said: “Relocating Shropshire Local to the local library will make it easier for residents to discover and utilise local support services. The library’s central location and extensive resources will provide a great place for people to access the information and assistance they need.

“Shropshire Local will remain conveniently located in the town centre, just a three-minute walk from the Darwin Shopping Centre. This ensures that the public can continue to access services with ease while the council makes better use of its buildings.

“I’m sure that those who need help from Shropshire Local will find its new home at Shrewsbury Library from January 30 just as easy to use.

“Our staff will continue to offer their expertise and support for those who need and who can’t access what they need to online.”