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Ayr Post Office move into WH Smith’s
Local MP, Sandra Osborne has met with Lynn Hobbs, Head of Outlet Support at Post Office Ltd to address concerns over the closure of Ayr’s Crown Post Office in Sandgate and its relocation as a franchise office in W H Smith’s.
Post Office Ltd has reported that crown post offices, directly managed by Post Office Ltd, anticipates losses will hit £70 million this year. Consequently, Post Office Ltd is converting a number of its crown offices into franchised offices, in an attempt to save costs and prevent closures.
Sandra said:
“My first concern was that this announcement came without any consultation and outwith the current review of the network which I have been keeping a close eye on as well as working with local people to ensure their needs are taken into account. The plan for this area is due to be published next spring. I raised this specific concern with the then Trade and Industry Secretary, Alastair Darling. I also raised with Post Office Ltd my concerns over public access to the new Post Office and the position of the staff currently employed.
I recognise that change is necessary if we want to ensure that in the long-term there is available a network of post offices providing customers with good access to postal services. Crown offices are typically located in High Street locations, and it is important that customers can continue to access post office services in Ayr town centre.
Access for less mobile customers should by and large be covered by local bus services. As far as staff are concerned, I have had assurances that they will be offered redundancy or relocation in line with their preferences. However, I am also concerned about the knock on effect the move may have on the Burns Statue Square Post Office which I believe could have been considered for Crown Post Office status which it had in the past. The Post Office view is that it would not have been suitable, but the catchment area will be unaffected and there is enough business for both. Post Office Ltd has agreed to keep this under review after relocation.
I will be monioring the situation after relocation myself looking carefully at the accessibility of the premises and the level of service provided, especially at the number of staffed counters.”
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