Campaigners have hit out at a plan to close Paignton’s Crown Post Office as part of plans which could see 115 Post Offices closed nationally and are urging residents to back a petition opposing the closure.
Crown Post Offices are owned and run directly by the Post Office, with Paignton’s conveniently located next to a Royal Mail Delivery Office (Which is not affected by this announcement). The full range of Post Office services are available. Nearly 1,000 Post Office staff work at the affected branches. The Post Office is owned by the Government, so Ministers will consider the plan.
Whilst the announcement indicates other franchising options may be looked at, local campaigners are concerned at the potential loss of a facility valued by many due to the helpful team of staff who work there. The news comes despite the Post Office expanding its work into areas like banking hubs and the growing demand for online retail and supported access to services.
The petition opposing the plan and demanding other options are considered to avoid closing this service can be found at:
www.kevinjfoster.com/campaigns/save-paignton-post-office
Paignton resident and local campaigner Peter Middleton said: “This news is a blow not only for the Town Centre, but the many who use its services. It is also sad to hear the team there may now face losing their roles. Instead of just axing this part of the network, I want the Post Office to better consider how they could be used to support many people who struggle with using online websites and services, including banking.”
Kevin Foster said: “A real transformation plan would see the Post Office look more carefully at how, in a time when online shopping services and the need for assisted digital access to services is growing, their network could be at the forefront of delivering them and assisting the more vulnerable in society.”
“A strong local campaign saved Torre Post Office, so I am pleased to be working with Peter to ensure the voice of Paignton people is heard on this plan.”
Other Post Offices in Paignton, Torquay and Brixham are not affected by this announcement. They are mostly small businesses owned by a sub-postmaster who provides Post Office services. Campaigners are urging residents to continue supporting and using them, alongside the Paignton Crown Post Office.
