THE customer services centre in Darlington has partially reopened as the lockdown starts to ease.

Darlington Borough Council says it has put new safety measures in place to protect people making registrations at its customer services centre.

It partially reopened yesterday and is open between 10am and 3pm.

A council spokesperson said: "Decisions on opening are being made on a service by service basis, only select services will be available, starting with the register office.

"This will be regularly reviewed. In order to keep staff and the public safe, and to ensure social distancing, the way the service is operated will be very different."

Customers will be seen by appointment only and no access will be allowed without an appointment.

Customers are also being asked to attend alone if possible, to help with social distancing

People should arrive at the time of their appointment as there will be no waiting area

There will also be security at the entrance to manage the appointment system

Customers will be asked about coronavirus symptoms when booking an appointment, and on entering the building. People are asked not to attend if they have symptoms.

Staff will be wearing PPE and working behind screens, while hand sanitiser will be available for staff and customers.

Payments will not be taken at the town hall and must be made online or by phone.