Fury at post office move

By [lmoran]

RESIDENTS are outraged over plans to move Crowborough post office from the centre of town.

People have until early January to express their views about the proposal to relocate the post office from Fernbank Shopping Centre to Beacon House in Croft Road.

Wealden MP Charles Hendry fears this latest move could be the death knell for post offices in the town.

Mr Hendry, who was previously Shadow Minister for Postal Affairs, said: "I am pleased a new location has been found at Beacon House, but this location will be significantly less convenient for people than a location in the town centre.

"The proposed move once again brings home how short-sighted the Government's closure programme has been.

"Crowborough, a town of 20,000 people, now has just two post offices.

"This latest move shows how vulnerable the situation is and how easily the town centre could be without a post office.

He added: "The town has too many empty shops and it is therefore essential to keep shops and businesses together to generate vibrancy in the town centre."

The branch has been operated by a temporary agent since the contract with the previous sub-postmaster came to an end.

Now a new sub-postmaster has been appointed.

The new post office will have a level entry to the premises and a wide door, a new serving counter set within a bright modern spacious environment, a hearing loop, low-level writing desk and space for a wheelchair.

The same range of services will continue to be available and customers can still collect benefits in cash using everyday banking services or the Post Office card account.

There are parking facilities available directly outside the premises.

A Post Office spokesman said: "Our priority is to safeguard post office services to the local community in the longer term.

"The relocation of Crowborough post office allows us to maintain access to services in the local area and to improve existing facilities."

The consultation ends on January 11 and submissions can be made by post to Post Office Limited c/o National Consultation Team, PO Box 2060, Watford WD18 8ZW, email consultation@postoffice.co.uk or call 08457 223344.