A COUNCIL has reassured residents the authority will be still operating despite the closure of its office receptions to the public.

Tendring Council has decided to close office receptions in light of the Coronavirus situation to protect both residents and staff members on Monday, March 23.

However, the leisure centres in Walton, Clacton and the Manningtree Sports Centre, as well as the Weeley Crematorium will remain open, in line with Government guidance, but with enhanced cleaning regimes in place.

Members of the public will not be able to access the Tourist Information Centre and reception at Clacton Town Hall, in Station Road the housing and benefits reception in Pier Avenue, Clacton, nor the offices at the Northbourne Depot, in Vista Road.

The Planning Reception at the Weeley offices will close tonight, Thursday, March 19.

Office receptions will be open only for staff members.

Neil Stock, Tendring Council’s leader, said the decision was a difficult one, but necessary to protect council employees and the public.

“As we are instructed to carry out social distancing, we have taken this decision to reduce physical contact between people – while maintaining our services to the public,” he said.

“As this situation is rapidly changing and developing, decisions on both closure of receptions and buildings which remain open are under constant review, and we will communicate any further changes.

“I would ask everyone to stay safe and follow Government advice in relation to coronavirus, and bear with us as we take steps and make preparations to put us on a strong footing to continue working as this situation unfolds.”

People can keep up-to-date on how Covid-19 is changing the council’s services at tendringdc.gov.uk/coronavirus.

The website will be regularly updated.