FORDINGBRIDGE Town Council and New Forest District Council have teamed up to provide a joint public services hub at a new information centre in Kings Yard.

The new information service has been provided by the district council following the closure of its office in Provost Street in a bid to bring together a number of services together under one roof in an efficient and cost-effective way for the taxpayer.

The office was launched on Friday and is now open for business Mayor Malcolm Connolly said: “It is vitally important, not just to residents in the town but to those residents who live in the outlying parishes.

“We have been able to join up the NFDC Information Service with our successful Visitor Information Service, which each summer has proved to be so popular with both local residents and visitors.

“With the office being open throughout the year it means there is now a ‘one stop shop’ for all inquiries.”

Cllr Connolly added: “This is a good example of how local authorities are working together for the benefit of residents, and opening the centre today is an indication of the success of working together in the future.”

Kathy Downie and Julie Tadman are the new information officers.

The office will also provide a private meeting space for councillors and council officers to speak with residents.

The office will be open from November to March, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am to 4pm and from April to October, Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm, and Saturdays 10am to 1pm.

Call on 01425 654560 or email information@fordingbridge.gov.uk.