A CAMPAIGN has been launched to save Redditch Post Office after it was announced on Wednesday that it could face closure.
The news led to anger on social media and has prompted the launch of a petition by MP Chris Bloore and the Redditch Standard to show the strength of public feeling on the controversial proposals.
After we broke the story on Wednesday, residents flocked to Facebook and other platforms in their droves, saying how the closure would impact those who relied on the lifeline service.
Mr Bloore said: “I am deeply concerned about the proposed closure of the Redditch Post Office – a vital service and lifeline for our community, especially our most vulnerable residents.
“This isn’t just another high street closure – it would mean losing essential, face-to-face support that people rely on for banking, bill payments, and more.
“Nearly two in five vulnerable customers use these services monthly, and without them, many risk social isolation and financial hardship.
“I have requested an urgent meeting with the Post Office to explore all options to keep these services in Redditch.
“I urge everyone to join our campaign and sign the petition to save our Post Office.”
The Post Office is looking at options for its wholly-owned branches, which currently employ around 1,000 workers across the UK.
New plans could include alternative franchise arrangements where an operator, such as WHSmith or another third party, could take on the branches.
The branch at Threadneedle House, on Alcester Street, is one of more than 100 branches facing closure.
There are 11,500 Post Office branches across, the UK, most of which are franchises, with 115 Crown Post Offices.
The strategic review, led by the Post Office’s new chairman Nigel Railton, is designed to overhaul how the organisation operates.
Visit chrisbloore.co.uk/saveredditchpostoffice to sign the petition online or visit our Redditch Standard office on Church Green East to add your name to the paper copies.
* WHAT do you think? Email [email protected] or write to the address on page 14 with your views.
