The newly named Congleton Information Centre re-opened on Monday 19 April in the Town Hall under new management. In a mutually beneficial agreement, the four members of staff who were previously employed by Cheshire East Council have had their contracts transferred to Congleton Town Council and are now Town Council employees.
The Congleton Information Centre will continue to help residents and visitors make the most of their time in Congleton and around Cheshire. The team will sell tickets for local events, attractions and theatres, promote places to stay and things to do and sell a limited amount of local produce and literature. The team will also become the reception for the Town Council and the Town Hall and first point on contact for general calls and enquiries.
The centre, located on the ground floor of the Town Hall will eventually be rearranged to allow office space for Town Council staff, allowing greater flexibility for the Congleton Information Team and the Town Council. There are also plans to improve the online offer, recognising that not all Information needs can be met during the traditional shop opening hours.
Chief Officer of Congleton Town Council, David McGifford said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for the Town Council and we are delighted to welcome Jess, Candida, Linda and Barbara into the Town Council team. This will strengthen our ability to promote Congleton, its businesses, services and events as well as giving the Town Council a street-level presence. In 2013 we took on the Streetscape Services from Cheshire East which have been a great success for the town. I am sure this latest transfer will prove equally beneficial for the residents of Congleton.
In addition to gaining the staff, the Town Council will receive three years payment from Cheshire East to cover the current costs of the service, as part of the agreement the information centre will work closely with Cheshire East Council in promoting key events and destinations across the area.
Brendan Flanagan, Head of Rural and Cultural Economy at Cheshire East Council said: “We believe this is a really positive step forward for both councils and will ensure the sustainability of the Information Centre which is a crucial part of the thriving visitor economy in Cheshire East. Cheshire East Council is keen to devolve more services to a local level where it makes sense to do so.
Congleton Information Centre can be contacted on 01260 270350 ext 1. The previous direct dial number will continue to be used as it is published on lots of literature. Opening hours are Monday Friday 9am – 4.30pm and Saturday 10am – 2pm.
