A COMMUNITY hub in the heart of Romsey has moved a step closer to completion.

Phase one of the planned building work at the Former Magistrates Court in Church Street was finished during the Bank Holiday weekend.

That saw Test Valley Borough Council’s customer service facilities move to the newly refurbished rear of the building while improvements to the reception area are made.

Phase two will create a larger customer waiting area, improved reception facilities and better access for the disabled and pushchair users. There will also be a dedicated area for viewing plans.

Once that is complete the council’s customer service facility will be back to the front of house.

Council services will still be operating during the building work and a temporary entrance will be in place for the pubic.

The work, costing £460,000, will mean Romsey Citizens Advice Bureau, Test Valley Community Services, Test Valley Borough Council’s customer service facilities and Hampshire County Council will be under one roof.

Leader of Test Valley Borough council, Ian Carr said: “Purchasing the Former Magistrates’ Court offered an excellent opportunity to provide a community hub in the heart of the town.

“It was my pledge, at the outset of the move from Duttons Road, to keep Council services local in Romsey. I am delighted that the building works to create the hub, which will consolidate public services under one roof, is progressing to time and budget.

Building work is expected to be completed by late autumn.