Post Offices in Rural Areas
A framework for the future of the Post Office network
Following today's statement by Alistair Darling, Secretary of State for Trade & Industry, we're glad some of our concerns on the future of the Post Office network have been taken on board.
The Post Office will now be required to consider the availability of public transport, alternative access to key post office services, local demographics and the impact upon local economies.
However, we're disappointed the period for local consultation remains at 6 weeks, which doesn't give sufficient time for adequate consideration by local communities. We'd like this doubled to 12 weeks, so that communities and their representatives can understand all the options for the future.
"It is essential now that rural communities are closely involved in planning the delivery of Post Office services in their areas in the future. In the meantime, we will continue to press the government and the Post Office to maintain the policy of no avoidable closures until agreed future arrangements are in place."
Read our full press release
The Post Office will now be required to consider the availability of public transport, alternative access to key post office services, local demographics and the impact upon local economies.
However, we're disappointed the period for local consultation remains at 6 weeks, which doesn't give sufficient time for adequate consideration by local communities. We'd like this doubled to 12 weeks, so that communities and their representatives can understand all the options for the future.
"It is essential now that rural communities are closely involved in planning the delivery of Post Office services in their areas in the future. In the meantime, we will continue to press the government and the Post Office to maintain the policy of no avoidable closures until agreed future arrangements are in place."
Read our full press release
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