Woodend Customer Service Centre will remain open with reduced operating hours after facing potential closure.
Macedon Ranges Shire Council voted in favour of the move last week following community feedback in favour of keeping the Woodend service.
The facility’s viability was in question when it recorded low visitation alongside other operational challenges such as cost and staffing.
Council’s six-month data collection trial (May to November) last year identified “the centre is unable to continue operating at the level it currently is”.
Closing the centre was an option considered with similar services available at neighbouring towns Kyneton and Gisborne, as well as Romsey.
Council heard from 27 submitters, which included 24 against the centre’s closure and two neutral submissions.
Comments highlighted disadvantages for people who don’t drive or don’t have access to a smartphone/computer, inconvenience of travel, impact for elderly residents, and a preference for face-to-face contact.
A reduction in operating hours means the Woodend Customer Service Centre will open from 12pm to 5pm two days per week, effective from August 1.
Council officers will continue to monitor in-person transactions at Woodend, and may make future recommendations for consideration.
