One-stop council shop opened to improve efficiency

The one stop shop has opened at the entrance on One Angel Square in Northampton

A new one-stop shop has been opened by a council in an effort to improve efficiency.

West Northamptonshire Council said the customer services facility, at the St John's Street entrance of One Angel Square in Northampton, would offer advice on housing, adult social care and council tax.

A spokesperson said it had moved from the Guildhall to bring together "services and local support partners together under one roof".

Andrew Last, the Reform UK cabinet member for HR and corporate services, said the administration was making better use of buildings "so we can continue investing in frontline services".

The one-stop shop will also have staff from Jobcentre Plus, Citizens Advice, the Northamptonshire Domestic Abuse Service and Northampton Town FC Community Trust.

Earlier in the month the council forecast a budget overspend of £9.6m due to the growing cost of adult social care, children's services and education.

Last added: "This move is about making life easier for people; a single, accessible place where you can come in, talk to the right people, and leave with the support and advice you need.

"By creating a modern, welcoming space and bringing services together, we're not only improving the experience for residents but also making better use of council buildings so we can continue investing in frontline services."