A permanent new home for South Kesteven District Council’s Customer Service contact point in Grantham could move a step closer if funding is approved next week.
It would be based on the ground floor of The Picture House, beneath the SKDC offices, subject to Cabinet approval of a £350,000 budget at its meeting on Tuesday (Nov 7th).
The meeting could also start a procurement process to find a contractor to install the internal fittings.
A report to Cabinet by Deputy Chief Executive Richard Wyles said the current temporary solution for a Customer Service Centre in the Guildhall Arts Centre was not a sustainable option.
The report added: “The ambition remains to provide a front-facing Customer Service function as it is essential that residents of South Kesteven District have the opportunity to access direct and face-to-face support with Customer Service staff.
“The District has vulnerable residents who need sensitive and professional face-to-face support and there are some activities which still require attendance at the Council offices.”
The number of face-to-face interactions during 2022-23 was 4,423. Up to September 30th 2023, there had been 2,487 face-to-face interactions, suggesting an overall increase on 2022-23.
Other options included offices and meetings rooms already in use at the council offices; the Guildhall Arts Centre; the former Customer Service centre at Abbey Gardens; Grantham Museum; and the bus station Tenant Resource Centre.
The new facility could be open to the public by November 2024. In the meantime the current temporary location at the Guildhall Arts Centre Grantham will remain and SKDC will continue to review this offer to ensure it provides a safe and welcoming environment for customers.