Visiting the Customer Service Centre

Appointment System

The Customer Service Centre operates an appointment system for most enquiries (see below for exceptions). You can book an appointment by using the online form at the right of this page.

If you are handing in documentation you will not require an appointment.

Upon arrival you will need to attend our main reception to inform them you have arrived and a ticket will be issued for one of two queues, Housing/Council Tax Benefit appointments or General Enquiries appointments.

Please ensure you arrive promptly for your appointment time. Late arrival may result in you not seeing an officer.

Your ticket number may be called out of number order depending on the time of your appointment.

Viewing Planning Documents

Planning documents can be viewed online unless they were filed before 2006, in which case an appointment to view them at the Customer Service Centre can be made by contacting us on 01702 215004.

Choice Based Lettings

The Customer Service Centre hosts a Choice Based Lettings 'On the Move' Social Housing display where details of available properties can be viewed and kiosks are available to make bids. This is a self service facility and there is no need to make an appointment.

Council Tax

Information about Banding, Payment, Discounts and Exemptions can be found online. You can also report a change, set up a Direct Debit or raise a query using the online forms available.

Access Arrangements

Interpretation, Translation and Transcription

We offer an Interpretation, Translation and Transcription service which includes information in large print, Braille, British Sign Language and many different languages and dialects spoken in Southend.

Disabled Access

Parking for Blue Badge holders is available and the entrances into our building and Customer Service Centre are suitable for wheelchair users. Our facilities comply with the Disability Discrimination Act.

Use of a Hearing Loop is available on request, as is a magnified page reader and signature guide.

Toilet facilities for those with disabilities are available, with access via Radar key which can be requested from the Registration Services Reception, if you do not have your own.