'Financial challenges' force council payment office to close

From Thursday, June 30, Barnsley Connects will no longer offer a frontline payment service at Goldthorpe after Barnsley Council decided to close it due to “financial challenges.”

A spokeswoman said that the council had to followed the government spending review and review all services to see if they could be streamlined.

“This involves identifying services which could be reduced in order for the council to minimise its spending whilst ensuring that the needs of residents and communities remain at the forefront of everything the council does,” she said.

“After a period of consultation, the decision has been taken to close the frontline payment facilities in Royston and Goldthorpe.

“Customers will need to choose an alternative payment method to pay for numerous council services including housing rent and council tax.”

Available payment methods include direct debit, online payments at www.barnsley.gov.uk, automated telephone payments on 01226 779397 or with Allpay Cards at various retail outlets and post offices.

Despite the closure of the payment service, a frontline enquiry desk will still be offered as normal at Goldthorpe.