After the floods we had here the Council was hit very hard and completely ruined. To their credit they got the customer contact centre back up and running and I think it is a much better system now. When you enter the mainreception you get a ticket relating to which service you require. YOu then wait in a large seating area until your number is called and it also comes up on a screen. I have found that it is better to go first thing in the morning or late afternoon as you will get seen quicker. YOu have to go through this system for whoever you want to see at the Council but it is very easy. In the main area there are lots of little private rooms and you can also go to a window to make a council tax or parking fine payment without taking a ticket. There is a security guard here who is very knowledgable and will help you decide which button you need to press for your ticket relating to who you need to see. There is parking at the front, but as Carlisle is a Disc parking zone you do need to display one unless you want a parking fine, although you can get them from inside the Council and if you don't have one they will give a little leway to nip in for it. They have always been really helpful with any issue I have ever gone here with and the staff are very helpful and friendly. read more