Mel Stride MP is urging residents in Hatherleigh to engage with the public consultation regarding the future of the local Post Office. Mr Stride made the call after speaking with postmaster Chris Slocombe this morning and visiting Hatherleigh later in the day to discuss the issue with local Devon County Councillor James McInnes. The six-week consultation began on 7th January and closes on 18th February.
The consultation has been triggered by Post Office HQ proposing to move the current branch from its location in Market Street to Bridge Street, about 100 yards away. In a letter to Mr Stride, Post Office Regional Network Manager Will Russell argued this would help modernise the branch and offer longer opening hours including Sunday mornings. But some residents have expressed concerns about issues such as parking, with roadside spaces currently available immediately outside the branch, which won’t be the case with the new site. Mel said:
“Post Offices are hugely important to rural communities and I know the branch in Hatherleigh is not only essential for residents in the town but also for residents in surrounding villages like Meeth and Monkokehampton. There’s no prospect of the post office disappearing, but its future location, access and opening hours are being consulted on and I urge local residents to have their say in its future.”
Devon County Councillor for Hatherleigh and Chagford, Cllr. James McInnes, added:
“I appreciate Mel speaking with Chris Slocombe and then following it up with a visit to Hatherleigh this afternoon. I am eager residents views are heard loud and clear by the Post Office and agree that the best way to do this is to get involved with the consultation.”
Residents can give their views by telephoning 03457 223344, by emailing [email protected] or by visiting www.postofficeviews.co.uk and entering the branch code 38651999.
