The Launceston City Council will close its Town Hall branch and transition to online and phone based customer service systems after close of business on Wednesday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mayor Albert van Zetten said the situation was unprecedented and decision were being made that would affect the lives of people in the Launceston community.
He said it was absolutely heartbreaking to see the city's business sector decimated.
"To see hardworking people lose their jobs, having to close their small businesses and stand down staff, but it is important that we do not lose hope - we will recover," he said.
"Unfortunately, we just don't know when this will happen.
IN OTHER NEWS:
"Finally, I would just ask everyone to be mindful of those in our community doing it very tough right now.
"Be kind, be patient and be considerate of others."
The following closures will also take place until further notice, including ones already announced:
- Launceston Leisure and Aquatic Centre
- Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (both sites)
- Town Hall Customer Service Centre (front desk)
- Visitor Information Centre
- All Council-owned playgrounds and skate parks, including Riverbend Park, the playgrounds at City Park and Cataract Gorge
- All council-owned community centres and halls
- Albert Hall for functions and conventions
- All Council-owned barbecue facilities, including Punchbowl Reserve, Heritage Forest and Riverbend Park
- All Council parks will remain open, such as City Park and Royal Park.
To contact the council call the Customer Service hotline on 6323 3000, email contactus@launceston.tas.gov.au or visit the council's website.
Councillor van Zetten said the council was working to provide as much flexibility as possible to progress planning applications during the pandemic.
Planning applications can be view online but for anyone unable to access the website, they will be available for viewing during council's normal businesses hours by booking an appointment on 6323 3220.