Rotherham Council service centres axed to save £160,000

Facilities at Swinton and Dinnington will be moved into nearby libraries to save £160,000 this year.

But the service will only be staffed two days a week. Rotherham Borough Council says public phones and computers there could be used at other times.

The customer service centres deal with council tax, benefits advice, housing and Streetpride.

More than 460 people took part in consultation since the proposals were announced in January. Half were happy for the service to be moved into the library.

But report said: “It’s clear from the consultation that some customers, in particular those over 65 years old, are very concerned about using technology to access services.”

The council’s Cabinet has agreed to close the buildings and review the new arrangements in six months.

The changes will allow additional services at Wath and Mowbray Gardens at no additional cost. Minor refurbishments will take place at Swinton and Dinnington libraries.