A key Bradford Council office building is to close to the public for an estimated 15 weeks while essential maintenance work is carried out.

City centre block Jacob’s Well houses departments such as planning and licensing, and the public needing access to these services will be redirected to other locations while the work is carried out.

The ground floor of the multi-storey building needs a full re-wire, a new heating system will be installed and work is being done to make the building more accessible for the disabled.

As a result, Jacob’s Well will be closed to the public from Monday, July 16.

The planning reception is moving a week earlier so anyone with planning or land charges inquiries should go to City Hall from July 9. Those with licensing queries should go to the Customer Services Centre on the corner of Britannia House, as should anyone who wants to drop off documents or applications relating to housing.

Mike Cowlam, the Council's assistant director of economic development and property, said: “We apologise for any inconvenience, but the work is essential and will improve efficiency and running costs.

“As part of the works, office space will be removed from the ground floor to be replaced by public access space and meeting rooms to improve service and confidentiality. Signs will be displayed at the site advising both public and staff of alternative arrangements while the ground floor reception area is closed. Details will also be available on the Council's website.”

Earlier this year the Telegraph & Argus reported how there was a backlog of maintenance across the Council’s estate of approximately £53 million. As part of the Council budget agreed in February, £4.5 million was set aside to be spent on improvements to key Council buildings, such as Britannia House, City Hall, Victoria Hall in Keighley, Bradford Industrial Museum and Keighley Leisure Centre.

In addition, the number of staff working out of Jacob’s Well will nearly double within the next three years as the Council looks to slash costs by reorganising its office space and selling off five key buildings. Workers will be moved out of Olicana House and Flockton House and other sites, with many relocated to Jacobs Well.