WINCHESTER City Council planners are moving offices to centralise their services.

On Friday, May 18 the Avalon House offices in Chesil Street will close and the entire planning service will be available from City Offices in Colebrook Street, the main council offices, on Monday, May 21.

The planning and building control services will both be based in City Offices and appointments can be made to see officers in the newly expanded reception.

Facilities to look at plans both on paper and on-line will be available, and all calls for the planning service will be handled by the customer service team on 01962 848 293.

Avalon House will be let to generate revenue for the city council.By consolidating staff on to one site the council also hopes to save money and work in new ways such as hot-desking and home working to provide a better working environment for staff.

By making the best use of space across the council, money normally spent on accommodation can be put back into services that directly affect residents.

George Beckett, council leader, said: "These are exciting times for both staff and members at the city council as we start to work in new ways and modernise our operation. The first stages in our 2010 master plan are underway and should make a real difference to our staff and our residents".