Post office service to cease at store

THE Post Office branch on Birmingham Road in Stratford-upon-Avon will close this week.

The shop on the corner of Justin’s Avenue, which houses the branch, has recently changed hands, but the new owner has decided not to take on the Post Office element.

The Herald reported in November how concern had been expressed about the sporadic opening hours of the branch, which Post Office bosses said they were investigating.

A closing date for expressions of interest for an alternative business to take on the service has been set for September.

A spokesperson said: “Birmingham Road Post Office will be temporarily closed from 6th July due to the resignation of the Postmaster and the withdrawal of the premises, which we do not own, from Post Office use.

“We understand and appreciate how much communities rely on our services and we apologise for any inconvenience caused by this temporary closure. The vacancy is currently advertised on our website."

The next nearest branches are on Henley Street in Stratford town centre and Drayton Avenue.

Bishopton town councillor, Victoria Alcock, said: “The Birmingham Road branch is a vital service on that side of town, there are many people who still rely on the local Post Office for their pensions and things like single stamps.

"The longer it’s closed it will put extra pressure on the branches in town and on Drayton Avenue, so I’m hopeful someone can be found soon.”