A COUNCILLOR has hit out at how Shipley Town Hall is now closed to general inquires from people and has a strict appointments-only policy.

Cllr Val Townend, (Con, Baildon) told how as she accessed the building recently using her special council security fob, she was asked for help by a bemused couple.

"They wanted to talk face-to-face with somebody about a matter, and were unaware we could only come in the building by appointment," Cllr Townend said.

"I do think it's diabolical that people have to go trailing into Bradford if they want to see someone.

"And that's especially true with simple planning inquiries which would be much better dealt with here in Shipley."

In response to her comments Ian Day, interim assistant director, Neighbourhoods and Customer Services, said: "There is still public access to the foyer of Shipley Town Hall where there is a free phone for the public to access Council services.

"The Customer Services Centre located in the Town Hall was moved to appointments only in February this year and will be relocating to the Library once the refurbishment is completed in April 2016."

Regarding the issue of planning matters, a Council spokesman said: "Members of the public can come to Bradford or Keighley to discuss general planning advice with a planning officer, an arrangement which has been in place for some time.

"Planning applications and all the information that has been submitted can be viewed via the Council’s website."