A FORMER Woolworths store is to reopen next month as a council office.

Durham County Council is to move its Customer Access Point, where residents can speak to council staff and access services, from the Civic Centre on Medomsley Road, Consett to the former shop on Front Street.

The new office will open to the public on Monday, February 7.

The council says that the move to a town centre location will make it easier for residents to access to council services.

Coun Brian Stephens, the authority’s cabinet member for neighbourhoods and local partnerships, said: "The new location offers customers better access to the office due to nearby transport links and proximity to the main shopping area of the town.

"It is part of our commitment to enhance the level of services and facilities available to our customers whilst delivering the most efficient service possible to communities."