Urban post offices under threat across UK

Consignia is continuing its restructuring policy with new plans that could result in the closure of up to 3,000 urban post offices across the UK.

Under the plans, investment grants of up to £10,000 could be offered to subpostmasters to modernise and improve their Post Office branches as part of the funding package. Subpostmasters who leave the network are also expected to receive the equivalent of more than two years’ remuneration each in compensation. Subpostmasters at Northern Ireland’s 200 urban branches have been contacted by officials with regards to the new plans. The UK Government has committed £270 million to the project.

Commenting on the new scheme, Alan Barrie, Executive Director at Post Office Ltd said: “In many towns and cities there are simply too many Post Office branches for the number of customers. Profitability is reducing to the point where it is increasingly difficult for subpostmasters to run viable businesses let alone invest in the future.

"This Government funding builds on our own careful planning and is supported by Postwatch and the National Federation of Subpostmasters. It will help us restructure to give Post Office branches in urban areas a more secure commercial basis and a long-term future."

Consignia said their rural post offices and branches in deprived inner city areas were not being targeted for closure because they are seen as providers of essential community services. (MB)