Commenting, Simon Burns MP said:

“I have always opposed the moving of the Crown Post Office to W H Smiths and feared that access would be a problem, particularly for the elderly and those in wheelchairs.  Sadly, that has proved correct. For the Post Office to believe that W H Smiths is “a very good fit for the Post Office as a partner” is pie-in-the-sky as far as the Crown Post Office in Chelmsford.  Given the problems there have been with access, a broken down lift, only one one-way escalator and no ramp at the back of W H Smiths by the bus stops, I find it extraordinary that the Post Office claim they “share a passion for generating sales through excellent customer service”.  That is a very odd concept of “excellent customer service”.

I am, though, heartened that the Area Manager from W H Smith is going to visit the premises to assess the ground floor layout and the impact of access to the lift.  I am also pleased that they are going to consider the possibility of installing a ramp at the back entrance to the store to help those with mobility problems.”

I hope this isn’t just promises but that some concrete action is taken to improve the situation.  I will continue to monitor it as well as Mrs Gowers who has been the inspiration behind the petition calling for better access.”