Post Office Ltd has announced today that it will not be going ahead with its plans to relocate Alderley Edge Post Office to the Co-op because the supermarket has changed their mind about operating the branch.
A Post Office spokesperson said: "Unfortunately we will not be going ahead with this relocation as our franchise partner has withdrawn. Therefore Alderley Edge Post Office will remain in its existing premises for the time being."
A spokesperson for The Co-operative said: "We have reviewed our position and have come to the conclusion that, on balance, our food store in Alderley Edge would not provide a satisfactory location for a Post Office. We understand that local people may be disappointed by our decision, and we apologise for any inconvenience it may cause."
This news obviously raises concerns about the future of Alderley Edge Post Office and whether a new postmaster can be found.
We have only just received this news so we will keep you updated as we learn more about the future of the village post office.
Comments
Here's what readers have had to say so far. Why not add your thoughts below.
If anyone from Waitrose is reading this... now's your opportunity to bring in lots of extra footfall.
I agree with Neil Stelling.... Welcome Waitrose, and include the Post Office.
The only thing that matters is that the Post Office is retained, in its current location preferably.
Plan B was to support Co-op; back to Plan A which is for Parish Council to support Post Office in current location. It would be disaster if we lost P.O.
As an ex sub postmistress I feel Frank could be right about the Post Office proving difficult for the Co-op to wok with.
I would prefer to see the PO in a fully accessible location but failing that remain where it is. Whichever it is to be the Parish Council will support the retention of the amenity in the village.
Frank makes a good point that the best option is for the p.o to stay where it is. Who is the landlord ? What type of retailer could use the empty space next to the p.o. ? The landlord is probabloy aware that if the p.o leaves, then those premises will be empty of the the next 3+ years while he continues to pay business rates... so give the p.o a good deal to stay !
Frank is also correct that it's most important to keep a p.o in village, and just possibly the co-op may not be entirely to blame
Barclays are strong in their "Barclays in the Community". They have a wonderful building in the middle of the village with, I am sure, space available, readily available strong rooms and could possibly absorb an additional safe.
Problems: Differing hours of service.
Saturday morning opening
Advantages: Good additional business and Income for Barclays
access for collecting and delivery of mail and parcels at its side
a secure premises for the public to conduct business
hopefully a long term future for the Barclays branch - one never knows when "the plug might be pulled" on a closure in these difficult financial times.
Has anyone else have ideas for an approach to Barclays?