THE Department for Work and Pensions is set to open a second job centre in Warrington town centre.

An application for planning permission submitted to Warrington Borough Council has revealed the proposals, which would see Tannery Court, on Tanners Lane, become a Jobcentre Plus.

This will be an additional branch to the current premises on Mersey Street.

The DWP told the Warrington Guardian that the new site was a temporary measure to be implemented as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

A spokesman said: “In response to the pandemic, the DWP is exploring potential options to take premises on a temporary basis in various locations across the country.

“Any new site is temporary and is in addition to existing provision, and any decisions on new premises and contracts will be available on gov.uk.

The planning application seeks a change of use for part of the ground, first and second floors of the building.

A total of 22 full and part-time staff will employed at the site, which was previously used as offices but is currently vacant.

Submission documents added: “The DWP is on the leading edge in response to the economic impact of Covid-19, with unprecedented demand on the benefits system with those in society with the greatest need for support accessing DWP services in very significant numbers.

“To meet the expected increased demand in your area, we are opening an appointment-only Jobcentre Plus office at the property described within the planning application.

“This is one of a number of additional offices being established across the country, and has been logged as a Government critical project with the Infrastructure and Projects Authority.

“We are attempting to open the new offices as quickly as possible to ensure we are ready to help people when they need us.

“We hope you will assist us in accelerating the planning approval process to assist us in achieving this.”