Durham Passport Office to Remain Closed Until January Due to Wind Damage and Safety Concerns

The closure of a passport office is set to continue until January, following damage sustained by its building due to high winds last month. According to sources within the Durham office who spoke to the BBC, a terracotta cladding panel became dislodged from the building’s exterior and subsequently fell through a skylight located on the second floor. The Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union, representing the office’s staff, asserted that “shoddy workmanship” had jeopardized its members. In response, the Home Office indicated that individuals needing an urgent passport would be required to visit alternative offices. Mary Kelly Foy, the Labour MP for the City of Durham, reported that employees had “previously expressed concerns about the building.” Ms. Foy commented, “For a building that was only opened in September 2016 to be reported to be in such a shoddy, and potentially dangerous, state is incredibly concerning. It further highlights the importance of building safety measures and that adequate inspections should take place both during and post-construction.” She also stated her intention to ask the government’s building safety minister to conduct an investigation. A spokesperson for the Home Office confirmed the office’s continued closure was “for the safety of our staff and customers.” The spokesperson added, “We will still be providing a quality service, with contingency measures in place to ensure that people continue to receive their passports in good time.” Individuals requiring urgent passports have reported on social media that they were compelled to travel to Glasgow, located 150 miles (241km) from Durham, to obtain them. Foy suggested that temporary arrangements should be established to allow local residents access to priority services “which do not involve extended, costly journeys.” Durham County Council announced that the closure of the adjacent road and paths would be “lifted as soon as it is safe to do so.” Ted Murphy, the building safety manager, assured that local businesses and residents would maintain access to their properties. The PCS union confirmed that staff members have been moved to other offices within the North East region while the necessary repair work is carried out.