North Ayrshire Council is to begin the phased re-opening of face-to-face services in some of its busiest locations.
Customer service centres at Bridgegate in Irvine and Saltcoats Town Hall will re-open from Monday, August 23.
Council chiefs hope to announce the re-opening of more local authority buildings in the coming weeks following further risk assessments and health and safety checks.
But their Cunninghame House headquarters remains closed to the public with restricted access to staff in line with Scottish Government advice.
Residents are encouraged to continue contacting the council either online or via the phone.
Council leader Joe Cullinane said the safety of visitors and staff were the most important consideration in the re-opening process.
He said: “We know that COVID-19 is still very much with us but, with the relaxation of restrictions as we move beyond level zero, it gives us the opportunity to start a phased re-opening of face-to-face services.
“Initially, this will be for the Bridgegate offices in Irvine town centre and Saltcoats Town Hall – two of our busiest offices – and we hope to announce further openings in the coming weeks.
“We would ask that all visitors continue to maintain a safe distance and wear a face covering inside our buildings as we want to take every step possible to ensure their safety, and that of all our visitors and staff.
“We would also like to take this opportunity to thank our residents for their support over the past 18 months or so.
“The option to contact us online or via the phone will still be there for anyone who wishes it and we would encourage our residents to use this facility in the first instance where possible.”
Visitors to Bridgegate or Saltcoats Town Hall will be asked to follow social distancing procedures..
A one-way system will be in place, screens and hand sanitising stations will also be positioned, while soft furnishings have been removed and toilets will be out of use.
Both buildings will operate the standard hours of Monday to Thursday, 9am to 4.45pm and Friday, 9am to 4.30pm.
If you require assistance from North Ayrshire Council but are not sure where best to find help, please contact the Customer Contact Centre directly on 01294 310 000 or visit www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
