We tried to go back to Reus to get another NIE cert. as the last was lost or stolen, but we were told we had to go to Tortosa as Reus no longer covered our area (L'Ametlla de Mar).  I phoned Tortosa and was told they give out numbers 24h per day.  We got there at 08.30 yesterday and were told we didn't need a number but to be back by 09.00.  At 09.00 there were a couple of people in front of us but we got into the office quite quickly.  We already had all the necessary documentation and application forms with us. We were sent out to make some photocopies and to pay the fee in a bank then we returned to the Police Station and after a few minutes were called into the office where the new certificate was handed over.  All in all a very painless process. Get there early though as they only let a few people in per day.

By the way, we had to go to the Comisaría de Policia Nacional de Tortosa on the edge of the big park (Passeig de Joan Moreira, 3) NOT the one in Passeig de la Ribera.

I have read in the Spanish press that they are working to bring in an online appointment system which should make the whole process even easier.