Battle to save Post Offices

The proposed closure of four post offices in the Stafford area has been condemned by local customers who are aiming to fight the decision.

Two near to town, in Marston Road and Wolverhampton Road, along with offices at Stowe-by-Chartley and Great Bridgeford are listed to go. Stafford Councillor Frances Beatty, Chartley Ward, fears it is the thin end of the wedge for community services. “With modern IT more and more people are working from home,” she says.

“These are the people who need the post office services and the closure means they have to drive further at a time when we are supposed to be trying to cut back on carbon emissions.”

She fears that there will be more closures in the future and is worried that other services, like mail collections and deliveries will be cut.

But she praised Stowe-by-Chartley Parish Council which is drawing up contingency plans to help the elderly and disabled of the village to access the Hixon Post Office when the local one closes.

“They are going to spread the word to find out who the needy are and ensure they can get to a post office,” she added.

Stafford Conservatives set up a picket line at the Marston Road Post Office urging people to sign a petition opposing the closure.

Matt Lewis, chairman of the Staffs area Conservative Future, said they had received support from local businesses as well as the residents.

Local Euro-MP Liz Lynne, who campaigned against the closures, said: “The closing of local services anywhere will inconvenience people but the removal of post offices, especially in rural Staffordshire, could literally be the death knell for some communities. 

“The majority of rural post offices are also combined with the village shop. Without the post office counter to keep them going these shops, many of which provide vital goods and services for people on low incomes, may also be forced to close. 

“Local people must make sure their voice is heard and sign petitions where possible. There is an alternative to these closures and the Liberal Democrats have a fully-costed plan which would revive the post office network.” 

Meanwhile the Countryside Alliance is telling communities “it’s not over yet – fight for your branch.”

Midlands regional director Clare Rowson commented: “This is sad news and will come as a shock to all those sub-post masters on the list, but the fight certainly doesn’t end here.

“We all feel that the Government has missed the point on Post Offices. Financial viability cannot be the only concern when considering whether to continue subsidising the Post Office Network.Post Offices are the social heart of many communities, and without them many thousands of people, including many elderly and disabled, would be increasingly isolated.”

The Alliance will be sending each earmarked branch a pack outlining how best to campaign and fight closure. 

Campaigners have until June 9 to send their views to Mark Partington, Network Development Manager C/o National Consultation Team, FREEPOST CONSULTATION TEAM(no stamp is required) Or email to: consultation@postoffice.co.uk  or call Customer Helpline: 08457 22 33 44.