With a decision on its future expected soon the campaign to save Paignton Post Office has been stepping up.
Paignton’s Crown Post Office was included in an announcement of plans which could see 115 Post Offices closed nationally. The announcement indicated other franchising options would be looked at, yet despite recent media speculation, staff and customers have been left in the dark about the future for the much-valued Town Centre facility.
A petition against the closure organised by Peter Middleton and Kevin Foster has already been signed by 800 residents, with the campaign receiving a boost from the Shadow Business Secretary, Andrew Griffith MP. Mr Griffith met with Kevin to hear the concerns of Paignton residents about the plans, plus the need for certainty about the future of this service which lies at the heart of Paignton Town Centre. The Shadow Ministerial team will seek answers on when a decision will be made and how resident’s views will be heard as part of any final decision.
Campaigners are calling for the Post Office and Ministers to look at ways Paignton Crown Post Office could be used to provide a range of public services, especially to support those who struggle to access services online.
Kevin Foster said: “Hundreds of residents have rushed to back this campaign since it was launched and its now time for the Post Office and Labour Ministers to confirm the facility will be kept. Despite some recent media speculation, staff and customers have been left in the dark about the future for this much-valued facility.”
“A strong campaign saved Torre Post Office when its closure was proposed, let’s hope our bay’s views are listened to this time.”
Shadow Business Secretary Andrew Griffith MP said: “I was concerned to hear from Kevin about the threat to Paignton’s Post Office. Our Post Offices are valued by residents and I and my colleagues will be demanding the Government and the Post Office end the uncertainty and listen to residents.”
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
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.
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