The new communities desk at the council’s One Stop Shop in Lodge Road will be manned by representatives from Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue and Northamptonshire Police so people can report crimes, produce driving documents and get fire safety advice.

Luke Hodson, from the fire service, said: “Having a presence in such a prominent location makes us much more accessible to people. This is obviously not for people to run in and report an emergency, but makes it easier for us to give out fire prevention and safety information that could ultimately save lives.”

Simon Bovey, managing director of the council, said: “By working in partnership with other public services we will be delivering better outcomes for local people at one point of contact. We hope the success of this scheme will encourage other public service providers to join our communities desk.”

On Monday and Friday police will be on the desk from 9am-12.30pm and the police safer community team from 12.30-4.30pm. The fire service will be available on Tuesday from 9am-12.30pm and 1.30-4.30pm.