An MP has criticised ‘outrageous’ plans close Nottingham’s main Post Office and re-locate the branch into a WH Smith.
The Queen Street branch is among dozens nationally which are listed for transfer to the newsagent and stationery chain, Post office confirmed on Monday (October 15).
The branch is due to move inside the WH Smith branch inside the Victoria Centre next year, following a six-week public consultation.
Nottingham South Labour MP Lilian Greenwood tweeted to say the “busy and well-located” branch should stay and she would campaign against the proposal.
The Communication Workers Union (CWU), which has members throughout the Post Office network, said the decision was a “slap in the face” to staff.
Outrageous proposal to close the busy & well-located Post Office on Queen St, Nottingham & shove services into a WHSmith. I’ll be campaigning with @CWUnews to oppose this change. Please RT if you agree. https://t.co/lAh3BuOVoh
— Lilian Greenwood (@LilianGreenwood) October 14, 2018
Post Office Network and Sales Director Roger Gale said: “We’re continuing to respond to unprecedented change on high streets and in consumer trends.
“By adapting to the needs of customers we’re making sure Post Offices will matter as much tomorrow as they do today, with services available when and where people want them, in convenient locations and open for longer hours, including Sundays.”
Post Office limited has shut and moved hundreds of branches in recent years, and the Nottingham outlet is one of 40 due to move in 2019.
When asked by Notts TV why the Nottingham branch in particular was moving and if footfall, profit or transaction numbers could be released, Post Office said this information was not available.
A spokesman added: “We’re proposing to franchise these branches to provide better sustainability for the future, so that we can safeguard Post Office services for the long-term.
“Our network cannot stand still as we continue to respond to unprecedented changes on our high streets and in consumer trends. We believe our moving to a franchise arrangement provides the best opportunity for the long-term sustainability of these branches.”
