Post office closure threat - council steps in to help (From Thurrock Gazette)

Post office closure threat - council steps in to help

3:00pm Wednesday 13th February 2013 in News

THURROCK Council leader John Kent has intervened after concern at the news the post office in Grays town centre could close.

Last week, the Gazette reported WH Smith, in Grays Shopping Centre, which houses the post office, will close on Saturday, March 2.

Bosses at the post office have not made a decision on what will happen when it closes, but have said it does want to keep the service in the town.

Mr Kent, pictured, is meeting with representatives from the Post Office next week to discuss the situation as he is concerned there may be a gap in service provision in the town.

He said: “I’m disappointed there still seems to be an issue.

“We know WH Smith will be leaving the town and that leaves the Post Office homeless, but there’s no reason for that to be the case.

“When WH Smith announced its decision, both the council and the town centre management team said an alternative would be found and we’re both still willing to fulfil that promise.

“Unfortunately, the Post Office nationally doesn’t seem so keen for there to be a seamless transition. It has put the running of the Grays office out to tender, but that process leaves a black hole.”

If the Post Office doesn’t find a replacement in the town centre, customers will face a lengthy trip to the smaller Mistry Newsagents, in Blackshots Lane, or offices in Lodge Lane or London Road.

Mr Kent said he wanted to ensure there was no interruption in service, which could inconvenience residents.

He added: “There was a time when the Post Office took its social responsibilities seriously – it’s not an all-for-profit business.

"Surely it will listen to sense and make sure its services continue uninterrupted in Grays over the coming months.”